The annual Syttende Mai parade through downtown Ballard won’t be happening this year due to continued physical distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“After 130 years of celebrating Norway’s Constitution Day in Seattle, we sadly with broken hearts, have had to face the reality of not being able to go forward with preparations for Seattle’s Syttende Mai celebration this year,” the Norwegian Seventeenth of May Committee announced on their website.
The parade, originally set to happen May 17th, has always been one of the biggest events in Ballard, drawing thousands to NW Market Street for the festivities.
“Our hearts go out to all who are affected by the current world health crisis. While adhering to ‘sheltering in place’ we encourage you to rely on your inner Nordic strength and remain ‘Nordic Strong’ and resourceful with hopes of happier and healthier times in the near future,” the committee says.
Photo: 2019 Syttende Mai parade
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This makes sense but is also really sad. It’s always a really fun, small-town feel parade that we look forward to every year.
If I can’t celebrate at the parade, I’ll celebrate with my wallet…I’m going to order some stuff online from Scandinavian Specialties, buy a shot of aquavit at the walkup table at Skål and give $20 to the National Nordic Museum.
This is sad. I agree with the idea of ordering something online from Scandinavian Specialties, and to give an extra gift to the Nordic Museum!
Syttende mai parades have been cancelled throughout most of Norway, as well. In fact most of Norway’s large summer festivals and celebrations have been cancelled, too.
https://www.lifeinnorway.net/17-may-threatened-by-coronavirus/