What New Year’s will look like during the pandemic

Ringing in the new year will look just a little bit different in the middle of a pandemic. While Times Square is still setting up for its ball drop, the event is closed to the public. In Southwest Florida, many public events have been canceled because of the pandemic.

That being said, most people say they will keep their gatherings small, not go out at all or they may just stay on their boats.

All of this to make sure people are ringing in 2021 safely.

We were able to ring in 2020 with hugs, kisses, loved ones and large gatherings. At this time last year, we had no idea that this pandemic was coming.

Now, there will be fewer people, if any by our side. Robert Bettis visiting from Vermont.

“Well, this year is going to be a lot different I think it’ll just be my wife and I in a little camper because I don’t think we’ll be going out much,” said Robert Bettis.

New Year’s Eve celebrations from Fort Myers to New York have been canceled this year due to COVID-19. No crowds to watch the ball drop or see the fireworks.

Instead, the party will be in many people’s living or dining rooms.

Amanda Kish oversees the Galaxy Fireworks Tent in Cape Coral and says she’s seen a boom in business this year.

“Families are finding it safer to come to the fireworks stands just to buy stuff for their community or for an individual gathering they may have,” Kish said.

This is because many people are opting for smaller gatherings as a way to stay safe.

Drew Williams lives in Fort Myers. “We haven’t invited anyone to come on the boat with us on the fourth either to watch the fireworks or on New Year’s because of that,” Williams said.

It may not be the grand celebration we’re used to, but that doesn’t slow down the excitement of this year coming to a close.

“Look how fast it goes it don’t wait for nobody,” Bettis said.

Donald Brunelle lives on Fort Myers Beach. “Look forward to next year to coming down here and watching the ball drop,” Brunelle said.

At-home fireworks displays are not permitted in the Town of Fort Myers Beach. It is part of a ban to protect the surrounding environment.