Published Wednesday 21 October 2020 at 14:58
The pandemic has, and will continue to have, a massive impact on so many of our lives. The good news is many dedicated people are working hard behind the scenes to bring you virtual and creative events to give everyone in BwD something positive to look forward to.
Due to the pandemic, a series of seasonal faith and community events are being moved online, and residents are being encouraged to get creative. From virtual religious services, to neighbourhood Halloween pumpkin trails.
While we battle to reduce local numbers of infections in our wards upcoming events including: Prophet Muhammad’s birthdate (28/29 October), Halloween (31 October), Bonfire celebrations (5 – 7 November), Remembrance Sunday (8 November), Diwali (14 November), Hanukkah (10 – 18 December) and the switching on of Christmas lights, will be celebrated in new, creative ways.
In line with national restrictions on numbers at events, and our current advice in Blackburn with Darwen to avoid households mixing, the decision has been taken collectively across Lancashire to re-think large scale events that usually mark these occasions.
Covid-safe and online events that residents can attend include: Neighbourhood pumpkin trails, Remembrance Sunday church services, Blackburn Festival of Light themed projections, streamed music and comedy events, Blackburn Museum virtual arts events, Active at Home online workouts with Re:Fresh, to name just a few.
Blackburn with Darwen’s Executive Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, Damian Talbot said:
We understand how much our communities love to come together for these events, but we need to protect each other and find new ways to celebrate.
Virtual meetups and events, treasure hunts, ghost story video calls and Halloween movie watch parties with friends and families are just some of the ways people can enjoy the season together, and whilst we know that these are not the same as being physically at an event, they are a good way of enjoying cultural and leisure activities whilst we are apart.
Unfortunately, trick or treating will not be permitted this year as it would increase the risk of household transmissions – however there are many other creative ways being shared by communities, including pumpkin treasure hunts.
If you have any questions relating to events in your area please visit the Government website.