Kinston’s City Council approved a special event permit request for May 14 and May 15 from the Shriners that includes a parade. The Shriners is a worldwide charitable organization that focuses on helping children.

“This is our spring induction for new Shrine candidates and recognition for the Shriner Children that we help,” said Marvin Klakken Vice President of the Lenoir County Shrine Club.

The two-day event will feature different Shrine clubs and units from Sudan Temple. 

“This is one of the ways we can show our appreciation to the community,” said Klakken. 

The parade will start at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 15, 2021 and will go from Caswell Street down Queen Street to East Street and back to Caswell Street. 

Historically the event has brought close to 1000 people to Kinston’s downtown area. 

“We should have a good turnout for the parade. This is the first one we have had since COVID shut everything down last year,” said Klakken.

There will be a party for all members with music and fellowship Friday night. The event is expected to draw crowds from out of town which could potentially boost the local economy.

“This will also help to bring some revenue back to the community for the weekend,” said Klakken. 

Shriners International is a fraternity based on fun, fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth with nearly 200 temples (chapters) in several countries and thousands of clubs around the world, per their website. Shriners International also supports Shriners Hospitals for Children, a health system of 22 locations.

“Everyone is welcome to come watch and enjoy the day,” said Klakken.