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