"A couple of years ago we even had Joe Biden. It's been a big tradition here in Delaware. It's important to our town but we understand we have to do what's best for everybody," said Prima Pizza owner Kevin Barrow.
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Barrow has participated in the big celebration ever since it started in the 80s.
"We run pizzas out to the people out watching the fireworks and we probably, on a regular Fourth of July, we'll sell between 500-700 pizzas. This year I'm debating whether or not I should even be open," Barrow said.
It's small businesses like the pizza shop that are the heart Hockessin's festivities, and are a big reason behind the decision to call it off.
"We're just too grassroots. Small business is what powers this and they're struggling and really having a tough time, and it's just a small operation that has a big punch when it works," Kenny Wynn who runs Hockessin's Fourth of July celebration.
The town debated on whether or not to do a show virtually but decided that it wouldn't be in the best interest.
"I can't control the people coming out and I know the people here they love it and they'll pack the ball fields where we light them off and I don't want to be responsible for that and social distancing being disrespected," Wynn said.
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Officials in Hockessin are hoping by 2021 the long time tradition will be back in action.
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