Bernards Twp. Charter Day Canceled Again Due To Coronavirus

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's celebration of the past will have to wait until the future. Officials canceled Charter Day festivities for the second straight year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The next celebration is set for May 21, 2022, according to a township announcement.

Charter Day celebrations the May signing of the township's charter in 1760. The event, which typically attracts thousands, combines history, art and music.

"Due the size and interactive nature of this event amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Charter Day 2021 has been cancelled," the announcement said. "This was not an easy decision; however, we remain committed to taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our community."

State officials have gradually reduced certain coronavirus restrictions over the past month as new cases and hospitalizations gradually decline. New daily cases peaked at nearly 7,000 in mid-January but gradually reduced since then. Since March began, new daily cases have fluctuated between 2,600 and 3,000. Coronavirus hospitalizations have also declined from 3,873 on Dec. 22 to 1,786 as of Sunday.

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But the state reduced outdoor-gathering limits from 150 to 25 in December. However, there is no outdoor capacity for wedding ceremonies, funerals, memorial services or religious and political activities. Certain exceptions also apply for sports and large venues with fixed seating, such as arenas.

Somerset County officials reported 31 new cases and no new coronavirus deaths in Bernards Township this past week. Officials have reported 1,181 cases and 47 COVID-19 deaths in the township since the pandemic began.

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