Raleigh Christmas Parade Shifts to Non-Motorized Option in Response to Tragic Incident
The Raleigh Christmas Parade in North Carolina will proceed in 2023 without any motorized vehicles, as approved by the Greater-Raleigh Merchants Board. This decision comes after the City of Raleigh initially denied a special event permit, citing safety concerns and respect for Hailey Brooks, an 11-year-old who was killed during the 2022 parade. The Brooks family, however, expressed opposition to the cancellation. The 2023 parade will feature marching bands, performers, costume characters, horses, dog rescues, giant balloons, and musical acts, and will be broadcast live on ABC11 platforms.