New Bedford Cancels Memorial Day Parade

New Bedford’s 2020 Memorial Day parade, scheduled for Monday, May 25, has been canceled because of the social distancing protocols needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the office of Mayor Jon Mitchell announced today.

The city instead will hold virtual services. Several events will be live-streamed on the city’s Facebook pages and aired on New Bedford Cable Access. The annual Fishermen's Memorial Service will be aired at 10 a.m., and the city's memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony will be conducted at noon.

Other events hosted by local veterans' groups may continue as planned, but will not be open to the general public.

The parade is New Bedford’s annual tribute to men and women in the military who gave their lives in service to their country. Mitchell's office said more information will be forthcoming.