Newport St. Patrick's Day Parade Canceled For Coronavirus Concern

NEWPORT, RI — Just one day after the City Council voted to allow Newport's St. Patrick's Day parade to continue as scheduled, the annual celebration was canceled due to concerns about the spread of the new coronavirus. On Wednesday, Governor Gina Raimondo said she was in favor of the parade's cancellation.

"The governor’s top priority is containing the spread of coronavirus, and she is recommending that Newport postpone or cancel the parade in the interest of safety," a spokesperson for Raimondo said.

During a meeting on Wednesday night, the city council voted unanimously to revoke the parade's permit.

"Although we are saddened, it is the rule of law," the parade's organizer's said. "We understand the immense pressure all involved have been under. If you do visit Newport, please follow common sense health practices and be safe."

On Tuesday night, the council voted four to three to allow the parade to go on as scheduled. Mayor Jamie Bova, who cast the deciding vote, said she would be voting in favor of cancellation at Wednesday night's meeting.

"In light of the firm guidance from health officials and the Governor, I am going to move to vote again on the parade license at tonight's Council meeting," Bova said. "I will be voting to revoke and cancel the parade."

Because it is privately organized, the parade could only be called off if the organizers requested it or if the council voted to revoke its license.

Along with the parade, the city has also canceled its St. Patrick's Day celebration at The Martin Recreation Center, also scheduled for Saturday, as well as the breakfast before the parade and the welcome reception planned Thursday to honor the delegation from Kinsale, Ireland, one of Newport's sister cities.

"We thank you for your understanding, and would like to offer our deepest appreciation to all of those who volunteer throughout the year to organize Newport’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade," the city said in a statement. "We look forward to its return in 2021 and wish all a safe and happy St. Patrick’s Day."

Next year's parade is scheduled for March 13, 2021.

On Tuesday morning, a spokesperson for the city of Newport said city officials were discussing the best path forward with the Rhode Island Department of Health.

The city of Boston canceled its annual St. Patrick's Day parade on Monday amid concerns of the virus's spread in Massachusetts. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said the decision was made "out of an abundance of caution."

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