City Manager Cites Ongoing Public Health Risks Related to Delta Variant
Rockville City Manager Rob DiSpirito announced the cancellation of the city’s two highly attended October special events, citing public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“In the interest of better assuring the health and safety of our residents, visitors and city employees in the face of the extremely concerning recent trends with this COVID-19 pandemic, as city manager I am today canceling both of the city’s high-attendance public events scheduled for this fall: Rocktobierfest and the annual Antique and Classic Car Show,” DiSpirito said in a message to the Mayor and Council.
DiSpirito made the decision after consulting with the Mayor and Council and city staff. As part of the city’s ongoing efforts to keep the community safe and slow the spread of COVID-19, staff recommended canceling the events. The city also considered recent decisions by other local jurisdictions. The City of Gaithersburg canceled their Oktoberfest and organizers canceled Taste of Bethesda. Both events were planned for October and large crowds were expected.
“I am not taking this step lightly, as none of us wish to disappoint the public,” DiSpirito said. “If more people were vaccinated, we would not be in this position now. Given the pandemic metrics of late, particularly with the delta variant running as it is, this is the responsible and necessary step to take for public and employee safety, our highest shared obligation.”
The City of Rockville encourages people to get vaccinated. For information about COVID-19 vaccinations in Montgomery County, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/vaccine.
The annual Rocktobierfest, which was scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 2, attracts more than 8,000 people to Rockville Town Center. One of Rockville’s oldest traditions, the Antique and Classic Car Show, which was slated for Saturday, Oct. 16, brings about 12,000 attendees and vehicles from 32 car clubs to Rockville Civic Center Park.
For more information about Rockville’s special events, visit www.rockvillemd.gov/events.