A beloved Easter tradition may not return to Richmond this year

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The future of a springtime tradition that's been enjoyed by Richmonders for decades is in jeopardy.

Easter on Parade first "hopped" its way into Richmond in 1973. Since then, it has regularly drawn thousands of people into city streets on Easter Sunday, offering free springtime fun to all attendees.

However, a spokesperson for the Historic Monument Association -- which once sponsored the event -- said that the 2024 parade could be the last.

Easter on Parade in 2023 (Photos: Nicole McMullin/8News)

Easter on Parade needs a new sponsor or sponsors in order to stay afloat, with the spokesperson adding that organizers likely need about $25,000.

"Realistically, the event would need a sponsor or sponsors to commit within the next two weeks," the spokesperson said.

If organizers cannot get those funds, Easter on Parade will likely not return to Monument Avenue this Easter Sunday, April 20.