Organizers have announced that the Westerly-Pawcatuck Memorial Day Parade scheduled for May 25 has been canceled due to mandates relating to COVID-19 pandemic.

In Rhode Island, Gov. Gina Raimondo has prohibited the holding of any large events such as parades and music festivals for the duration of the summer, forcing the cancellation of iconic events such as the Newport Jazz Fest. 

The Westerly-Pawcatuck parade is one of the oldest parade celebrations in the country and began after the Civil War when Gen. John A. Logan decreed the day to be set aside to remember fallen soldiers. Those wishing to participate or donate to future parade funds may contact Chairman Dan Lapoint at dglorybound@aol.com.