No, Murphy Didn't Ban NJ Birthday Parades. He Wants 'Moderation.'

NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy didn't ban birthday parades in New Jersey – even through some towns have done so – during the coronavirus outbreak. But he did ask people to do it in "moderation" if they're looking for a way to make up for the lost celebrations during the crisis.

Murphy didn't totally embrace the idea when he was asked about it during a press conference on Friday. But he did say that, if people are going to do it, to be "very careful."

His remarks came after Sparta called for the "immediate cease and desist of individual celebratory processions” on its Facebook page.

"We've got to be very careful because we want people to stay home so, even if you're in a car by yourself, you are going out," Murphy said.

"And again, I think we have to do this in moderation."

A number of parents and friends have conducted the celebration for parties or get-togethers that were scheduled after last month's stay-at-home order was issued.

Related:

• Toms River Twins Get Birthday Parade As Coronavirus Halts Trip
• Basking Ridge Police Bring Kids Joy Through Drive-By Parades
  

Murphy noted that some communities have done a good job of celebrating the return of service members to their towns while practicing social distancing.

Murphy spoke about the issue at 1:14:30: