CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati’s opening day parade won’t be on the Reds’ opening day next year.

Organizers of the 99th annual Findlay Market Opening Day Parade announced Wednesday they’ll wait until Monday, April 2, to hold the event that winds through Cincinnati’s downtown.

The 2018 Major League Baseball season will begin Thursday, March 29, the earliest start in Major League history excluding international openers, to create more off days during the season. All 30 teams open that day with the Reds hosting the Washington Nationals.

Merchants say the early Major League start comes at a busy time when stores and customers are preparing for that weekend’s Easter holiday.

A Reds official says the club understands the decision and will continue to enthusiastically embrace the parade .

The Reds host the Chicago Cubs April 2.