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It’s an Unfestive July 4th as States Call Off the Celebrations

  • From Boston to L.A., annual patriotic traditions are upended
  • Even the neighborhood BBQ could turn into spreading event
A couple sits on a beach while using a set of American flags to create a social distancing barrier around them in the Queens Borough of New York, on July 1.Photographer: Gabriela Bhaskar/Bloomberg
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Covid-19 has crashed America’s Fourth of July party.

As the country grapples with a resurgent wave of coronavirus cases, public health officials and local leaders are trying to tamp down festivities for a holiday known for carefree revelry. That means canceling fireworks and parades, closing beaches and bars, and begging citizens not to invite the neighborhood over for a backyard barbecue.