As a result of two Quaker City String Band members contracting COVID-19, the Funfest Parade has been canceled for Sunday.

Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce President Mary Malone said, “It is with a heavy heart that we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel the Funfest Parade. In an effort to keep the safety of the Funfest Committee members and Greater Hazleton residents, as well as that of the Quaker City String Band members, at the forefront of our minds, we feel this was the appropriate decision to make at this time. Our prayers and well wishes are with the members of the Quaker City String Band.”

Malone added, “We were only alerted to this development with the band on Friday afternoon. Although we did try to find alternate musical entertainment, as you can imagine, it was difficult on such short notice. However, the cancellation of the parade does not diminish our pride in what Funfest stands for in the Greater Hazleton community and our appreciation for our Hometown Heroes. On behalf of the Chamber and the Funfest Committee, I extend my deepest appreciation to the Funfest 2020 Hometown Hero Joseph Barna and all the nominees, as well as Mayor Jeff Cusat, Police Chief Brian Schoonmaker and the Hazleton Police Department members, Fire Department Chief Donald Leshko and the Hazleton Fire Department members, and the Hazleton City Council. Additionally, I’d like to extend our deep gratitude to our 2020 sponsors PPL, CAN DO, Standard-Speaker, Service Electric Cablevision, Lehigh Valley Hospital and Luzerne County Visitors Bureau.”

Anyone with questions can contact Mary Malone at or call 570-455-1509.