Fireworks at the Christchurch Carnival have been canceled for this weekend after organizers deemed the risks of causing a fire to be “too great”.
Despite earlier communications saying fireworks at the carnival on Saturday night (August 13) would go ahead, organizers have since reversed the decision after several fires were seen in Dorset on Friday.
A spokesman for the Christchurch Carnival said: “After many discussions with the PKK [Council]fire service and our fireworks operator, we have made the decision to cancel the fireworks for Saturday night.
“Although the PKK has accepted the risk assessments from the operator, and the fire service has not specifically mentioned fireworks in the red alert and prohibited activities, we think that the risks are too great and therefore they have been canceled.
“I’m sorry it’s taken so long to reach this decision, but we had to consult with a lot of people to confirm it. You’ll all need to dance and sing even harder to ABBA on Saturday night to make it a great finale. Thank you for your patience.”
Followers on social media, although disappointed, agreed that the decision was for the best. “Shame, but understandable,” said one woman.
The Christchurch Carnival has already had to cancel the dog show due to extreme heat.
The popular event takes place and features stalls, live music, fireworks and a funfair.
It will be the first time a full carnival parade and program has been held for two years, after Covid canceled previous plans.
