Raleigh Christmas Parade cleared to happen this year, but without any motorized vehicles

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Raleigh Christmas Parade will happen in 2023 after some back and forth with the City of Raleigh.

The Greater-Raleigh Merchants Board approved the City of Raleigh's proposal to remove all motorized floats and vehicles from the parade lineup.

That decision comes less than 24 hours after the City of Raleigh denied a special event permit, which is required for big events like parades.

The city said it was denying the permit "out of an abundance of caution for parade participants and spectators, as well as respect for Hailey Brooks' family and friends."

However, the Brooks family said the city did not consult them at all. In fact, they said they opposed the decision to cancel the parade.

Hailey, 11, was performing in the parade when she was struck and killed when the driver of a truck pulling a float lost control at the 2022 Raleigh Christmas Parade on Nov. 19.

Her parents filed a wrongful-death lawsuit in April.

Friday afternoon, Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin said her staff reached out to parade organizers offering an option for a different type of 2023 parade that would allow for marching bands, dancers and other organizations to be involved without any motorized floats or vehicles.

Hours later parade organizers had met and approved the City's offer.

Friday evening, The Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and Shop Local Raleigh released this statement: "The Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and Shop Local Raleigh in partnership with ABC11 is pleased to announce the 2023 Raleigh Christmas Parade will continue as planned (well sort of) for November 18, 2023 in Downtown Raleigh. The event will feature marching bands, performers, costume characters, horses, dog rescues, giant balloons, musical acts and more!! The 2023 event will not include motorized vehicles or floats, but still promises to be one that's entertaining for all ages. And the parade will still broadcast live on all ABC11 platforms! Thank you to the Raleigh City Council and Staff and to all that have worked so hard to provide an opportunity for this beloved tradition to continue."