Downtown Holiday Events Derailed By Virus

The Rock Springs Main Street/ Urban Renewal Agency is disappointed to announce a few cancellations during this holiday season. The Governor’s latest orders and spiking infections make the economic feasibility of several events impossible to host this season. 

            “We realize everyone was hoping to reconnect at these events, especially after months of separation due to the pandemic,” Maria Mortensen, URA board chairwoman said. “However, we need to limit the risk of infection," she added. 

            Cancellations include Christmas Llamas, the Bar J Wranglers Christmas Concert, and Polar Express showing.

            The Christmas Llamas were originally scheduled to be in Downtown on December 5th and December 12th.  According to Emily Ray from Wind River Llamas, she’s hoping to be able to work with the URA to reschedule a visit in future.  “Just having the llamas to look at won’t be as entertaining as being able to pet and ride them,” Ray pointed out.

            The much anticipated Christmas concert by the Bar J Wranglers was also cancelled.  “Their concert has been such a big part of the Christmas season for many years,” Maria Mortensen said. 

            “It breaks our heart to have to cancel but with limited capacity, it’s just not feasible to host this event,” Mortensen added.   The live performance was scheduled for Saturday, December 12.

            Annually, families come to the Broadway Theater for the traditional Christmas showing of The Polar Express.

            “Even though we’d like to host these gatherings, everyone’s safety is top priority now,” Mortensen shared.

             As such, the showing of the Polar Express has been cancelled as well. 

            Unrelated to the virus, the popular horse and carriage rides have been canceled, as well.

            One bright spot is Santa’s arrival in Downtown Rock Springs.  He’ll still be visiting with children but doing so outdoors at the Downtown gazebo (corner of D and Broadway Streets).  Santa will be there every Saturday, November 28 to December 19 from 11 am to 2 pm, sponsored by Escape 307.  (In case of inclement weather, he’ll move to the Broadway Theater lobby.)  Social distancing and masks are required.