ARVIN, Calif. — Bakersfield National Cemetery announced it will remain open from sunrise to sunset this coming Memorial Day weekend, but no public events are planned this year due to COVID-19.

Officials said the cemetery will be open for families and friends to continue the tradition of placing flowers and small American flags at their Veteran’s gravesite. However the usual remembrance ceremonies that honor this weekend each year will not be taking place.

Instead, cemetery staff has planned a small observance that is not open to the public. It will be photographed and posted on the National Cemetery Administration’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

"Bakersfield National Cemetery is committed to observing Memorial Day 2020 in a manner that honors those who sacrificed for our Nation while protecting the health and safety of visitors and our team members,” said Bakersfield National Cemetery Director Randy Heard.

The cemetery is also asking visitors keep safety in mind when visiting and abide by all federal, state, and local guidelines including social distancing and use of face masks.

The cemetery urges the pubic to consider visiting Friday, Saturday or Sunday to avoid possible crowds on Memorial Day.