Recent rain, cooler temperatures, and those spectacular fall colors are welcome signs that fire season is nearly behind us and the holiday season is ahead. Of course, as with so many other things in 2020, the holiday season will look different this year as gatherings, traditions and events are being reimagined with COVID-19 health precautions in mind.
The Annual Lighting of the Sonoma Plaza is going virtual, shopping for local holiday gifts can now be done from your home, and many are postponing traditional gatherings, opting for smaller and safer celebrations with only members of their household.
Rising cases of COVID-19 nationally, state-wide and regionally has our local health officials, the State and the CDC issuing guidance, recommendations, and even restrictions in an effort to avoid an even greater surge from the holidays. Non-essential travel is not recommended and people who choose to gather in person are advised to keep it small, short and outdoors. We know that these recent developments are disappointing – we are all eager to connect with our friends, family and community – but now is not the time to let up!
We (very much!) look forward to the day that we can all gather together again in person. Until then, please protect your loved ones, our community and our healthcare workers this holiday season by limiting your exposure to those outside of your household and continuing your safe practices – like hand hygiene, face coverings and social distancing. All of your efforts will help slow the spread of the virus, and the sooner we can lower the number of new cases, the sooner we can reopen schools, businesses and other services.
We realize that these precautions are not easy, and in the spirit of “thanks giving”, please know we appreciate all you have done to keep our community safe over the past months and are doing now to keep yourself and your family safe for many holiday seasons to come!
— Sonoma Mayor Logan Harvey
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