Shriners Parade to bring festive flair, road closures to downtown Kinston this weekend
Photos: Submitted.
Downtown Kinston will welcome a vibrant display of pageantry and purpose this weekend as the Sudan Shriners host their annual Spring Ceremonial, culminating in a festive parade down Queen Street on Saturday, May 17.
The ceremonial, held May 16–17, is one of three major gatherings the Sudan Shriners organize each year to showcase their mission, build camaraderie, and highlight the philanthropic work they do through Shriners Children’s, their official charitable organization. The group supports 13 hospitals and over 150 ambulatory centers across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, providing specialized care for children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft palate—regardless of a family's ability to pay.
“This is a time for us to get together, enjoy ourselves, and show the public what we’re about,” said Tom Ferrell, Potentate of the Sudan Shriners, who has served in the organization for 38 years. “Our main goal is to support Shriners Children’s, and we want people to see the good work that comes from that support.”
The Sudan Shriners' territory stretches from the Virginia line down to South Carolina, east of I-95, and their ceremonial weekends are both a celebration and a public-facing opportunity to increase awareness of their mission. The organization’s reach is global, with Ferrell noting that children from 126 countries have received treatment, including war-impacted children from Ukraine.
The highlight of the weekend is the Shriners Parade, stepping off at 11 a.m. Saturday. Parade units will begin forming at 10 a.m. on East Caswell Street. Spectators can expect a lively procession featuring motorcycles, mini cars, clowns, pirates, and even a Ferris wheel—a signature of the Shriners’ entertaining flair.
“We’d love for everyone to come downtown Saturday morning,” Ferrell said. “It’s not just fun—it’s a chance to learn about the lives we’re impacting.”
To ensure a safe parade route, the Kinston Police Department will close Queen Street from King Street to Vernon Avenue between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All cross streets along this route will also be closed during that time. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and use alternate routes.
The weekend also includes a golf tournament at Falling Creek Country Club and a Friday afternoon of open time for Shriners and their guests to explore local businesses and restaurants.
With members and their families traveling in from across eastern North Carolina and beyond, the ceremonial offers not only a boost for local tourism but also a reminder of the impact of community-centered philanthropy.
“This is who we are,” said Ferrell. “We take care of kids, we come together to support each other, and we invite the public to see it firsthand.”
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