Baltimore's MLK Day parade canceled because of weather concerns

Todd Karpovich and Mary Carole McCauley, Baltimore Sun on Jan 18, 2025

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BALTIMORE — Organizers of Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade announced Saturday that the event would be canceled for the second year in a row in advance of snow and bitterly cold temperatures.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott was concerned about this weekend’s forecast, which calls for up to 3 inches of snow on Sunday, followed by a cold snap on Monday that will keep high temperatures in the low 20s.

“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 Robyn Murphy, interim CEO of the Baltimore Office of Promotion and The Arts.

City Councilwoman Odette Ramos expressed similar disappointment but agreed with city officials who wanted to ensure the conditions were safe.

“The Martin Luther King Jr. Parade is always a great time celebrating and honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr,” said Ramos, a Democrat representing North Baltimore’s District 14.

“I’m disappointed that we cannot do this again this year, but the weather could cause hazardous, icy conditions. There are other ways to honor Dr. King. I read one of his letters or speeches each year to reflect on his life and legacy while also drawing inspiration for the coming year’s work,” Ramos said.

“Community service by helping our elders, cleaning up around us, or reading to young people are additional ways to honor Dr. King. But don’t just do that on this day, it’s important to lift others every day.”

Baltimore’s first MLK Day parade was held in 2000. Over the years, as many as 45,000 people have come to the event to applaud marching bands, baton twirlers, dignitaries in classic cars and dance troupes.

But the celebration was paused in 2021 and 2022 when the parade and other cultural events nationwide were impacted by the pandemic.

The parade came back in 2023 but on a smaller scale. After BOPA announced at the last minute that it was calling off the annual event, Scott’s office hastily organized a replacement parade.

The milelong march was set to return in triumph in 2024, only to be canceled at the last minute because of a fast-approaching winter storm.

This year’s cancellation should not undercut the meaning of the holiday, said Baltimore City Councilwoman Sharon Green Middleton.

“I know the decision was difficult,” said Middleton, a Democrat who represents Northwest Baltimore’s District 6. “Although we cannot control Mother Nature on this actual namesake holiday, it’s important to continue to engage, connect, learn and teach our children the principles that Dr. King used to improve our communities we live in together, every day. Working together constantly is the key.”