Delray Beach drops 2027 parades under new Florida funding rules
A new state law banning DEI-linked event funding forced the city to cancel St. Patrick’s Day and Pride celebrations, though the mayor promises a parade save.
By James Foster ·
Delray Beach officials canceled the city’s 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Pride events on Tuesday, a move that immediately drew criticism from local residents who questioned the logic behind the decision. The announcement, posted on the city’s Facebook page, cited a new Florida state law as the direct cause for scrapping the annual traditions.
The legislation, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in April, restricts public funding for community events tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. It takes effect on Jan. 1. City staff reviewed the new statutes and concluded that organizing or promoting events like Pride or St. Patrick’s Day festivities became legally prohibited if they received public funds.
Local reactions to the cancellation were sharp. One resident asked if the city would next cancel the Christmas parade, calling the situation weird. A volunteer with the Delray Beach Police Department described the decision as ridiculous, noting that the community aspect of the events was beyond anything they could imagine losing.
Mayor Tom Carney responded to the backlash with a statement saying the city is working feverishly with multiple entities to ensure the 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade goes on as scheduled. Carney did not specify how the city plans to fund the event or what legal mechanism will allow it to proceed despite the new restrictions.
The state law includes exceptions for state and federal holidays, a list that does not include St. Patrick’s Day. Residents emphasized the social value of the gatherings, describing the parades as times when families and adults come together for fun. The city’s decision to cut the events highlights the tension between local tradition and the stricter financial definitions imposed by the state legislature.
