The organizers of the Bangor Festival of Lights Parade issued a statement this weekend responding to criticism and disappointment over the decision to cancel this year's parade.

The Rotary Club of Bangor cited safety in light of icy conditions as the major concern in its decision to cancel the parade. The parade will not be rescheduled. The tree lighting has been rescheduled for December 10th at 5 p.m.

In explaining the decision, the group's organizers cited the tragedy that marked the July 4, 2013 parade in Bangor, in which one person was killed when run over by an antique fire truck.

"Following the tragic accident at a parade two years ago, safety is and should be our number one priority, not only for parade watchers but for participants and volunteers as well," said the statement. "We recognize that many people had already started building their float/entry and several had made significant financial investments. But unless we can ensure the absolute safety of all those involved, it is simply not wise to hold the event this year."

Organizers also addressed the possibility of rescheduling the parade, which had traditionally been held "rain of shine."

"[T]he logistics behind planning an event of this magnitude do not happen overnight ... and given everyone’s schedules during this busy season rescheduling is not viable, much as we wish it could be."

You can see Bangor Rotary's full statement below:

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