PREBLE COUNTY — Organized events with fireworks celebrating the nation’s Independence Day on July 4 are few this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and mass gathering regulations.

In Preble County, the Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration at the Preble County Historical Society has been canceled. The annual fireworks and live music event has been postponed until Sunday, Sept. 6, with further details to be released at a later date.

Likewise, the Thunder in the Valley fireworks event sponsored by the New Paris Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau was canceled until 2021, as was the annual Boom & Blast event in Eaton, sponsored by Kettering Health Network.

But one organization is moving ahead with its event.

The West Alexandria Celebration Committee will host the annual July 4 Party in the Park and Car Show at Peace Park on July 4, from 1-7 p.m.

According to organizers, the fireworks display will take place at approximately 10 p.m. on the grounds of the Twin Valley Community Schools.

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no vendors or restrooms available at the school. Masks are not required but are recommended. Anyone who is currently sick or has recently been sick, or has been around someone who has been sick is asked to not attend for safety reasons. Those who attend are asked to practice safe social distancing, remaining 6 feet apart.

There will be no entrance to the Twin Valley South Schools before 8:30 p.m. Parking spots are for vehicles only — attendees are welcome to watch from inside their vehicles, or watch from the school’s practice field area in socially-distanced small groups.

The annual car show will take place at Peace Park from 1-7 p.m. with entries costing $10 per vehicle. Craft, baked good and concession vendors are also being invited. All vendors must follow COVID 19 restrictions, including but not limited to, being able to wipe down high touch surfaces frequently, having no self-serve areas, and all condiments being individually packaged.