Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Luck of the Irish is being silenced in Buffalo this weekend as both Buffalo St. Patrick's Day parades have been officially canceled by city officials.
"We are taking the proper steps in our community", said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown in making the decision official Thursday afternoon.
"As a top destination for St. Patrick Day parties across the country, we recognize that St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Buffalo are important cultural events for our community and always a lot of fun and a great boon to our City's restaurants and bars, as people stream in to enjoy the many festivities", said Mayor Brown. "That's why I'm disappointed to say - that after a conference call this morning with County Executive Mark Poloncarz, organizers of both weekend St. Patrick's Day parades in Buffalo, and others - parade organizers have decided to cancel both parades," says Brown.
"Many health and safety concerns were discussed on that call concerning large gatherings, including parades. It was with heavy hearts that all of the organizers decided to cancel their parades. This was not an easy decision. Nobody is taking it lightly. I thank them for making that decision. We all love St. Patrick's Day weekend, with its parades and festivities, but at this time, the focus must be on public health and safety, and making sure we take pro-active steps to prevent any potential spread of the corona virus."
Additionally this weekend, the Buffalo Home and Garden Show has been cancelled this weekend as a result of the CDC and New York State guidelines.
After the announcement to cancel both St. Patrick's Day parades, Mayor Brown and South District Council Member Christopher Scanlon moved forward with the annual Irish Flag Raising in Niagara Square.
The flags and decorations that normally adorn the parade route will still be installed by the City of Buffalo Department of Public Works in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Mayor Brown stated,
"Our community is steeped in Irish history and tradition, and my Administration is always pleased to shine a light on the many positive contributions of Irish Americans to our culture in Buffalo. While health matters forced us to postpone our City's festive parades, I'm pleased that the Irish Flag will wave proudly outside Buffalo City Hall, and in partnership with the Buffalo Landmark Illumination Team, our skyline will be lit in green on weekends throughout the month of March", stated Brown.
