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Region: US | Usage example: I hate to rain on your parade, but the venue is already booked.

Rain on your parade

Meaning

Disappoint or spoil someone's good mood or celebration.

Usage

Used when news or events dampen enthusiasm.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Parades depend on good weather, so rain would ruin the festivities.

Mid-20th-century American idiom that quickly spread into broader culture.

Related Idioms

Rain on the parade

Spoil someone's enjoyment.

Don't rain on my parade

Don't spoil my celebration or good mood.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.