Norwalk St. Patrick's Day Parade Canceled Again Due To Pandemic

NORWALK, CT — For the second year in a row, the Norwalk Police Emerald Society has canceled its annual St. Patrick's Day Parade due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Lt. Terrence Blake announced Wednesday.

The Parade Committee made the decision "with safety of all participants and attendees in mind," Blake said. The Norwalk Police Emerald Society is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling expressed his disappointment, but added that residents need to remain vigilant in the continued fight against the virus.

As of Tuesday, 9,510 Norwalk residents had contracted the virus over the past year, and more than 200 of them have died as a result, according to health officials.

Norwalk continues to average more than 30 coronavirus cases per 100,000 people, and remains one of Connecticut's red alert communities for the virus. To be considered a red alert community, the average number of coronavirus cases must exceed 15 per 100,000.

"It's disappointing not to have the parade, but now is not the time to relax guidelines," Rilling said. "We will make sure the shamrocks are painted green for residents to enjoy. Please
celebrate St. Patrick's Day safely and let's hope next year we can have the parade once again."