Home » Fremont Arts Council Cancels May Day Celebration, And Looks At Alt-Plans For Solstice Parade

Fremont Arts Council Cancels May Day Celebration, And Looks At Alt-Plans For Solstice Parade

The celebration of the Fremont Solstice Parade brings color and life to the streets at the start of each summer. Photo by Adrian Laney, Jun ’16

The Fremont Arts Council Board of Directors has been working, behind the scenes and at a safe social distance, to stay informed of City, County and State health directives regarding COVID-19.  They want to keep their members, and supporters, healthy – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

To that end, they’ve cancelled their annual May Day Celebration.  This May Pole dance and potluck is all about social gathering and sharing community – which is not physically possible during quarantine efforts.

The Fremont Solstice Parade may go on, in a different, alternative way, in 2020. Photo by Adrian Laney, Jun ’15

Following May Day, the Fremont Arts Council usually doubles-down on preparations for the legendary Fremont Solstice Parade, currently scheduled for June 20th.  However, the FAC Board currently is seeking grants and donations that could fund the non-profit through the Parade – and beyond, if the 2020 Parade needs to be delayed.

In these uncertain days, the FAC has its workshop – The Powerhouse – closed until further notice.  As to the Committee Of the Whole public meetings, usually held on the second Tuesday of each month, these will continue once gatherings can be safely held.

Grand floats and great ensembles are the bedrock of the Fremont Solstice Parade, but not necessarily for 2020. Photo by Adrian Laney, Jun ’15

The FAC Board is waiting to see what the health data says, along with local governance, about mass gatherings in June.  They hope to be able to make an informed decision by the end of April, including about any contingency or alternative events, if the Fremont Solstice Parade can happen.

Meanwhile, the Board is looking at how such an event, held now or later, can be funded, and how to gather the volunteers around creating this colorful and celebratory spectacular!

For now, the Board wants to see everyone staying safe, taking (self-) care, and dreaming of a day when we all celebrate together again!  If you want to see the artistic, fun and cool creations by FAC members, check out the Fremont Arts Council on Facebook and Instagram (click here.)  If you want to contribute, contact outreach@fremontartscouncil.org