The National Park Service has announced in a statement that no Independence Day Parade will take place this year on the National Mall due to logistics and planning restrictions.
The marching bands that would travel to DC from around the country to perform at the event did not have enough time — which is eight to 18 months — to rehearse, organize and fundraise ahead of their trip, according to the statement.
In addition, many members of those units are unable to travel because of COVID-19 concerns.
“We are unable to stage a successful event without the excitement and sound provided by these high school bands, drill teams and other youth organizations,” the National Park Service said. “We share everyone’s disappointment in this decision and look forward to presenting this red, white and blue celebration of America’s birthday again on July 4, 2022.”