National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., canceled for second straight year

The National Park Service has cancelled its annual National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., citing logistics and planning limitations – as the coronavirus pandemic in recent months appears to be on a significant but still uncertain decline.

"The National Park Service and our partner, Diversified Events – who puts on the National Independence Day Parade with us every year – have come to the reluctant but necessary conclusion that we’ll have to cancel this year’s parade," National Park Service spokesperson Mike Litterst on Thursday told WTOP radio.

The agency, which oversees operation on the National Mall and at other federal properties and historic sites across the District, cited having insufficient time to get the military bands, drill teams and other youth organizations to perform by July Fourth.

Such groups typically need eight to 18 months in advance to prepare. And other problem is that some potential, out-of-town  entertainment groups are still under virus travel restrictions.

The parade was also cancelled in 2020.

The announcement of the cancelation follows President Biden last month expressing optimism that Americans could hold small, outdoor gatherings by the Fourth of July.

"If we do this together, by July the Fourth, there is a good chance you, your family, and friends can get together in your backyard or in your neighborhood and have a cookout or a barbecue and celebrate Independence Day," Biden said.