Organizers postponed the Scranton’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for Saturday over fears of spreading the coronavirus, according to a statement from parade organizers.
The St. Patrick’s Parade Association of Lackawanna County cited the virus’ spread on the east coast and parade cancellations in Philadelphia, Boston and Ireland.
“As conversations continue with officials from the City of Scranton, all agree that the safety and well-being of our community is of primary concern,” the association said. “Scranton’s parade is one of the largest in the country and historically draws scores of visitors from far and wide — so we simply want to avoid exposing our community to additional risk at this time. While this decision is disappointing, we are acting with a general concern for the well-being of everyone. In the coming weeks, we pray that the COVID-19 virus will run its course and when we are confident that all is clear — we will enthusiastically plan a new 2020 date for the Saint Patrick’s Parade in downtown Scranton.”
Wilkes-Barre’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, scheduled for Sunday, will go on as planned, but Mayor George Brown banned candy and gift distribution, a common sight during past parade.
The parade steps off at 2 p.m. at South and South Main streets.
Updates
The Anthracite Heritage Museum in McDade Park, Scranton, has canceled its Parade Day Eve program set for Friday, March 13, because of coronavirus concert. Anyone who already bought a ticket can get a refund or put the ticket value toward another museum function or a purchase at the museum store. For more information, call 570-963-4804 or email ahmuseum@verizon.net.
“We apologize for any inconvenience and hope that this crisis resolves quickly,” the museum said in a statement.
Scranton Cultural Center at The Masonic Temple has postponed its annual St. Patrick’s Parade Day Party now that the parade has been postponed as well.
“We look forward to sharing this day with our patrons each year, but understand the importance of the health, safety and overall well-being of all of Northeast PA,” the cultural center said in an announcement. “As of now, we are intending to proceed with all other events as planned, but we will continue to monitor the situation locally, throughout the region and around the state and will take whatever actions we deem in the best interests of our patrons, our staff and the community as a whole.”
The Carbondale Lighted St Patrick’s Parade still is planned for Friday, March 13, at 7 p.m.
“Based on our assessment of the event, and the overall community characteristics, we feel it’s acceptable to proceed at this time,” the event posted on its Facebook page Wednesday. “Of course, we ask that everyone take the necessary personal precautions, and must firmly request that anyone experiencing symptoms of ANY potential illness – please refrain from attending the parade.
The parade will be aired live on Facebook, the post added.
