This past week was supposed to mark the 50th anniversary of the annual Jonesborough Days Festival in Historic Jonesborough.
However, COVID-19 delayed that milestone until next year. So the Town of Jonesborough observed Independence Day this year by shutting down Main Street and hosting a block party.
With social distancing measures in place, the festivities were obviously scaled down from the town’s usual observance, which traditionally includes a patriotic parade, live music and a grand fireworks display. This year, the focus was on the vendors along Main Street whose businesses have suffered a great deal as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Business owners were able to use the space in front of their stores to offer sidewalk sales, and restaurants were able to add outdoor seating to safely accommodate guests. Many businesses set up tents on the sidewalk to better reach out to those walking by.
Activities were planned to entertain folks of all ages as the message was delivered that Jonesborough is open for business, albeit with proper safeguards in place.
