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Published on January 19, 2025
Baltimore Cancels Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Due to Weather Concerns for Second Consecutive YearSource: Mbell1975, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For the second year running, Baltimore's tribute to civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. will not be observed with its annual parade, as bad weather forces city officials to call off the event. Following an announcement from The Baltimore Office of Promotions & The Arts (BOPA), which was made with the endorsement of the Mayor's office, the decision was confirmed due to safety concerns ahead of snow showers expected in the coming days. According to a post on social media, "We are truly disappointed to cancel this much beloved event. However, we agree with the mayor's office that public safety must be our top priority in this moment and the inclement weather and frigid temperatures have dictated this very necessary decision," said interim CEO Robyn Murphy, per WMAR2 News.

As FOX Baltimore reported, the organizers and community stakeholders share an air of disappointment. The parade typically features community bands, nonprofits, civic organizations, sponsors, city officials, artists, and volunteers. These groups were primed to unite to celebrate Dr. King's enduring legacy.

Despite previous hopes and preparations, the logistical challenges posed by the weather have left the organizers with few options but to cancel the parade. There are no plans to reschedule the parade later, leaving a void in the city's communal remembrance and recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day for 2025.