Nor'easter Forces First-Ever Columbus Day Parade Cancellation in NYC
A powerful nor'easter has forced the cancellation of the annual Columbus Day Parade in New York City, marking the first time in its history that the event has been called off. The storm, which has brought high winds and heavy rain, has also led to the closure of New York City public schools and several other news today events this weekend.
Despite the cancellation, a special Mass will still be held at 9 a.m. inside St. Patrick's Cathedral. Meanwhile, the New York Botanical Garden remains open, while the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is closed. The parade is not the only event affected; the city's Diwali celebration, the New York Road Runners' Staten Island Half Marathon, and Morris County's Columbus Day Parade have also been canceled.
Columbus Day is a federal holiday, but the ongoing government shutdown may impact federal workers' pay for the day. The Governor has declared a State of Emergency due to the dangerous weather conditions. In contrast, the official name of the celebration taking place on Monday, October 10, 2023, is not explicitly stated, but it is commonly referred to as 'Gay Pride' or 'Pride Parades' in English. The New York Public Library and Brooklyn Public Library are also closed on Columbus Day. Alternate side parking rules and sanitation collection are suspended for the day.
The nor'easter's impact on New York City has been significant, leading to the cancellation of several major events and disruptions to public services. While some institutions and services remain open, the city braces for further potential impacts from the storm.
