Delray Beach cancels St Patrick’s Day parade due to new state law

City cancels popular annual events

Mayor Tom Carney confirmed that Delray Beach will not host its traditional Irish celebration or Pride festival in 2027. Officials stated they are legally prohibited from organizing these activities under new restrictions signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in April. The law takes effect on January 1 and prevents municipalities from promoting events referencing ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Residents and local business owners expressed outrage at the decision to scrap these lucrative weekends for the community.

New state legislation drives changes

Florida Senate Bill 1134 formally bans public funding for programs designed with reference to specific identities or diversity goals. This measure is part of a broader set of rightwing laws passed during the final year of DeSantis's tenure as governor. The legislation does not apply to federal holidays celebrating ethnic diversity such as Martin Luther King Day or Juneteenth. Other cities in Florida are currently assessing their positions regarding these new restrictions on local event funding.

Mayor seeks private funding solutions

Carney said he is working feverishly with city officials to find ways to restore the March celebration using private funds. He noted that the parade is engrained in the DNA of the Delray Beach community and means much to residents. The mayor received numerous messages from people outraged by the cancellations and promised regular updates on restoration efforts. No other events are known to have been cancelled so far despite other cities reviewing their compliance.