Harrisburg Nixes Holiday Parade Over Low Cash

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Santa Claus won't be making his annual early visit to Pennsylvania's capitol city.

Officials in Harrisburg have canceled the city's annual holiday parade because organizers haven't raised enough money.

Last year, the cash-strapped capitol started requiring special events to pay for themselves. Parks and recreation director Brenda Alton says not enough sponsors have ponied up to keep the floats afloat.

Mayor Linda Thompson says she's hopeful the parade can be pulled off in 2012.

The parade has traditionally marked the start of the holiday season with floats, bands and balloons and the arrival of Santa Claus.

Parade organizers in the suburban Philadelphia town of Hatboro say a shortage of donations may force them to cut back their parade. Santa may have to hoof it rather than ride a float.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)