Update: Raleigh Christmas Parade Will Proceed As A Pedestrian-Only Event

RALEIGH – Late last week, city officials announced organizers of the Raleigh Christmas Parade were denied a permit out of “an abundance of caution” and respect for the tragic death of 11-year-old Hailey Brooks during the parade last year. An out-of-control truck that had gone uninspected for months struck the young dancer in front of hundreds of parade attendees. 

Following backlash over the parade’s cancellation, however, city officials partially reversed the decision during their Tuesday (Sept. 19) meeting, saying the parade would instead go forward as a pedestrian-only event without motorized vehicles or floats. The decision was a compromise between city officials and the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and Shop Local Raleigh, the groups that help organize the parade.

Still, many residents, including Brooks’s family, questioned why the city would cancel or modify the parade rather than implement stricter safety precautions, including those outlined in pending state legislation dubbed the “Shine Like Hailey Parade Safety Bill.” 

The bill—which has passed the state House but not the Senate—would require parade vehicles to be inspected within one week of the event, among other stipulations. Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin said that the city initially decided to cancel the parade because the bill and its new safety regulations have not yet become law.

The city was also concerned about ongoing lawsuits against parties, including the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and Shop Local Raleigh, although the city itself was not named as a defendant. 

The Raleigh Christmas Parade Is Canceled For 2023

RALEIGH – The City of Raleigh has issued the following statement about the Raleigh Christmas Parade:

The City of Raleigh will not grant a special event permit application for the 2023 Christmas Parade. The decision was made out of an abundance of caution for parade participants and spectators and respect for Hailey Brooks’ family and friends. The permit applicant, the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association, has been notified. 

We understand the disappointment, as this was not an easy decision for anyone. The Christmas Parade is a Raleigh tradition for kicking off the holiday season, and an important way to recognize our small businesses. Several City of Raleigh departments are working with partners on a variety of events and activities that everyone can enjoy. We are also looking for ways for our small businesses to participate. We look forward to sharing these community opportunities in the coming weeks.