The celebration of Christmastime is going to look a little different in Goldsboro this year.

This week, the Goldsboro City Council heard a presentation on the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Parade through the downtown area.

Chamber President Kate Daniels noted they were ready to implement safety measures due to the ongoing pandemic should the council wish to move forward with the parade.

Daniels also says they looked at options including a stationary drive-past parade, but decided that was not feasible die to the size restrictions of the downtown area.

Council member Antonio Williams asked how the city could ensure COVID-19 safety measures were being followed.

Mayor Chuck Allen says, one way or another, the decision needs to be made now to give participants enough time to prepare.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, the Goldsboro City Council voted to cancel this year’s Downtown Christmas Parade.

There was talk about holding a virtual Christmas Parade with no spectators, but that appeared to not be viable when, again, considering COVID-19 precautions.