Broadmoor Christmas Parade canceled for second year due to police coverage costs
BATON ROUGE — The Broadmoor Christmas Parade has been canceled for the second year in a row after organizers struggled to cover the costs of required police security and traffic control.
The decision comes after organizers were unable to secure a fee waiver from the mayor's office and the Baton Rouge Police Department. Without officers on-site, organizers said the parade could not legally or safely move forward. Organizers previously told WBRZ that security costs alone can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars.
While local residents recognize the steep financial burden, many are saddened by the loss of the neighborhood tradition.
"I can't imagine the security cost that much for that little parade," one resident said.
"I always enjoy it. It's personal. It's not like the big parades, you know, and I love it. I will be sorry it's not happening," another resident added.
Organizers confirmed that all paid registration fees will be refunded and expressed hope to bring the parade back in the future. WBRZ reached out to Baton Rouge Police and organizers of other local parades regarding security plans, but has not yet received a response.