Pandemic changes Memorial Weekend activity planning

Though we are closing in on what normally is a busy three-day weekend, this year’s holiday is stacking up as a quiet one.

Because of the pandemic and restrictions on public assembly, the events which normally draw thousands of people to the area have been cancelled.

There won’t be a Lady Vestey Victorian Festival this year. Plans for class reunions and alumni banquets have been scrubbed. Memorial services at area cemeteries have not been scheduled for this year.

Though many events have been cancelled, that doesn’t mean everyone is staying home.

Though the swimming beach is temporarily closed, Lovewell Lake will be open for such popular activities as camping, boating and fishing. Even swimming is allowed in areas other than the swimming beach. Large group gatherings in the shelter houses will not be permitted.

As many lakes have more restrictive regulations and some are closed entirely, the turnout at Lovewell is expected to be huge.

Individuals will still be decorating graves, One family we spoke with earlier this week plans to decorate graves in 32 cemeteries in this two-state area. Volunteers are still planning to decorate the graves of veterans and the Avenues of Flags will be posted in many locations. Unlike most years, there will be only a few peony and lilac blooms to decorate the cemeteries. The lack of flowers can’t be blamed on the pandemic. A cool spring has set the plants back.