Failte Ireland and the Dublin City Council have just made the decision to cancel the New Year’s celebrations in the Irish capital. The reason: the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The organizers have therefore reluctantly canceled one of the most anticipated events of the year. A difficult decision, motivated by a single and clear priority: protecting the population from Covid-19 transmission.
An Event That Gathered Up to 110,000 People Each Year
New Year’s in Dublin Won’t Be as Festive as in Previous Years
The time calls for austerity and responsibility. For Dublin residents, currently under lockdown, this is yet another blow extinguishing any hope of celebrations in 2020. Forget the year-end festivities: 2020 will end as it began — with caution and social distancing measures.
The decision may seem premature in September, but Failte Ireland and Dublin City Council prefer to stay realistic. As Ireland faces a second wave of the epidemic, the coming months could be challenging. According to them, there is no point in planning unrealistic events.
It seems unreasonable and inappropriate to encourage people to gather in large numbers. This would go against public health guidelines and hinder efforts to contain the spread of Covid-19.
A carefully considered decision that plays the safety card. There will be no concert or fireworks over the Custom House at midnight this New Year’s Eve. The Irish will be encouraged to gather in small groups within their households and to respect safety measures to protect every family member.
As for Christmas… Although the Dublin City Council has NOT YET made a statement, the Irish capital might be deprived of Christmas markets and any street entertainment. Future measures are expected to prevent large crowds.
One thing is certain: the year-end celebrations in Ireland will be unlike any other. Let’s hope the country can make up for it in 2021 with its St. Patrick’s Day festivities!
