WINDSOR, ONT. -- The Ford Fireworks in Detroit will go off at a secret location as a televised-only show at the end of August.

The Parade Company says the 2020 display will take place on Monday, Aug. 31. The special broadcast on WDIV Local 4 will honor frontline workers and heroes of the COVID-19 crisis.

“We recommend people do not try to gather to watch them, it’s not what this year’s event is for,” said Windsor police Sgt. Steve Betteridge.

Organizers say in response to this unprecedented time and public safety as a top priority, Hart Plaza and other public spaces will not be open for viewing. Strict public safety guidelines will be communicated by state and city officials.

Regardless of where the “secret location” is Betteridge says follow recommendations from the public health unit, regarding physical distancing and mask wearing in close quarters.

“Do not undo the fantastic tremendous work that our community has done to flatten the curve and keep everyone safe,” he said.

Windsor-Essex medical officer of health Dr. Wajid Ahmed said physical distancing is the most effective measure to prevent COVID-19.

“Physical distancing continues to be the most effective measure to prevent COVID-19 transmission. A large gathering of people makes it challenging to maintain physical distancing,"  Dr. Ahmed said. "Events like the fireworks have the potential to bring a large number of people and increase the risk of COVID transmission. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit recommends that people enjoy the fireworks safely from the comfort of their living room instead of gathering in large numbers.”

Viewers usually line up on both the Windsor and Detroit sides of the Detroit River downtown to view the annual show at the end of June. Due to the pandemic, crowds will not be allowed to gather this year.

“It’s disappointing, but this is the life we’re living in now, so we just have to accept that,” said Windsor resident Savannah Ewing, adding she’ll likely still watch the televised version. “I think it’s fun. It’s a great event and I don’t want, just cause we can’t go there, I wanna see it still.”

The theme of this year’s show is “We Are One Together.”

- With files from CTV Windsor's Rich Garton