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Old Sacramento New Year's Eve fireworks show not happening for 3rd year in a row

Residents react to cancellation of New Year's Eve fireworks in Sacramento
Residents react to cancellation of New Year's Eve fireworks in Sacramento 01:57

SACRAMENTO – For another year in a row, there won't be a New Year's Eve fireworks show in Old Sacramento.

Logistical challenges, like not being able to find a viable launch site, are being blamed for the cancellation.

"I have good memories of that so that's sad for people," says Michelle Morgan in Old Sacramento

Large events are happening on both sides of the river – Enchant Christmas in West Sacramento and New Year's Eve at the Railyards featuring John Summit.

"Other sites, including the Tower Bridge itself, were considered as possible places to launch the fireworks, but ultimately there were either safety, access or traffic concerns," said City of Sacramento representative Tim Swanson in a statement on Wednesday.

This marks the third year in a row that the Old Sacramento New Year's Eve fireworks show has been canceled. COVID-19 concerns prompted the last two cancellations.

"I'm sad. I just went 'Oh' because I used to years ago come down here for fireworks. I would want them to have it hear maybe not the ballpark do it here like they've always had," said Morgan.

Now, businesses and neighbors are hoping the canceled show doesn't affect the celebration downtown.

"I think we will be expecting a large crowd. We're open New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, so hopefully, there will be a lot of people here both days," said Savannah, who works at G. Willikers Toy Emporium.

CBS13 did ask the city if security in Old Sacramento played a role in the decision. They said that wasn't the case.

We did reach out to the Sacramento Police Department which said they will have additional patrols throughout the city on New Year's Eve including downtown and in Old Sacramento.

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