Mayor Tom Carney is scrambling to save the city’s beloved parade as new state restrictions threaten two longtime community traditions.
DELRAY BEACH, Fla. — One of Palm Beach County’s most beloved traditions is facing an uncertain future after Delray Beach announced it will no longer host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade or Pride Festival in 2027, citing a sweeping new Florida law restricting government support for diversity initiatives.
The decision puts a parade dating back to 1968 in jeopardy, along with the city’s annual Pride celebration.
But Mayor Tom Carney isn’t ready to let the festivities disappear.
A New Law Changes the Rules
Senate Bill 1134, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in April, takes effect Jan. 1, 2027. It prohibits local governments from funding, promoting or organizing certain activities involving diversity, equity and inclusion, including programming tied to ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity.
After reviewing the legislation, Delray Beach officials concluded they could no longer legally organize, finance or promote either event.
A Parade Worth Saving
“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade isn’t just another parade. It’s engrained in the DNA of the Delray Beach community,” Carney wrote on Facebook.
The mayor says he’s working with private sponsors and organizers to preserve the celebration, which has brought generations of residents and visitors to downtown Delray Beach.
A privately funded parade remains possible under the law, which allows municipalities to issue event permits and provide public safety services.
Carney has also expressed support for a privately organized Pride Festival.
What Happens Next?
For now, neither event has a confirmed private organizer or funding arrangement.
The city-sponsored celebrations are off the calendar, but the traditions themselves may yet survive.
The question now: Will Delray Beach’s private sector step in to keep the celebrations alive?
