Ventnor postpones 'Spring Fling' Block Party until fall

Ventnor Spring Block Party May 2019.

By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY

VENTNOR - Due to COVID-19 outdoor gathering restrictions, the city is canceling its Spring Fling Block Party scheduled for May 8. But fear not, the popular event will be back in the fall shoulder season, officials said.

We had hoped that some COVID-19 restrictions would have been lifted by now, allowing for the attendance we anticipate. However, CDC and state guidelines for large gatherings is still limited to a number that is below our anticipated attendance for this event, Commissioner of Public Safety Tim Kriebel said in a post on the city's official Facebook page.

Mayor Beth Holtzman said the commissioners postponed the block party after receiving a letter from the Ventnor PBA Local 97 that stated holding the street fair would be a blatant and reckless disregard for public safety and health.

Since we honor our police and their views and concerns, we heeded their words, the mayor said.

The commissioners discussed the possibility of postponing the event at their last meeting or holding it at Ski Beach, which would allow festival goers to be more socially distanced than on Ventnor Avenue.

Police Chief Douglas Biagi said he knows people are anxious to get back to normal, but with the number of COVID-19 cases rising, it would be difficult to track the number of people in attendance and adhere to gathering limits.

The first block party held in May 2019 was well attended, but was not held last year due to COVID-19.

State of New Jersey Outdoor Gathering Limits

• General outdoor gatherings must be limited to 200 people and social distancing must be practiced.


• There is no limit for outdoor gatherings for wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, funerals, memorial services, religious activities, or political activities.


• Outdoor catered events are limited to 200 individuals, excluding staff, as long as appropriate social distancing can be maintained. Learn more.


• Outdoor sports practices and competitions may exceed the general outdoor gathering limit under specific exceptions, described in this article.


• Outdoor performances at outdoor entertainment centers, including movie theaters, performing arts centers, and other concert venues, are limited to a number that ensures that all people can remain six feet apart, but no more than 200 people.


• Large venues, including sports and entertainment venues, with a fixed seating capacity of 2,500 or more may host events at 30% capacity outdoors; the 30 percent capacity limit excludes participants, such as athletes and performers, and staff, such as coaches and ushers, but include patrons and other members of the public.