Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day at the Philly Parade

When the month of March arrives, I think it’s fair to say many people think of Saint Patrick’s Day. In Philadelphia the holiday has been celebrated for hundreds of years, with the Philly parade being one of the oldest in the country. 

The earliest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade dates all the way back to 1771, a whole five years before the Declaration of Independence was signed and we were formally our own entity of just thirteen colonies. Several Irishmen gathered to honor Ireland’s patron as founding members of the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick for the relief of Emigrants from Ireland, according to the official parade website. George Washington himself was an honorary member of the society, and ever since, the tradition of the parade has remained strong for over 200 years. 

This year, the theme is “250 Years of Faith, Family, Friendship, and Heritage.” The parade starts at 11 a.m. on March 15th from 16th and JFK Boulevard. The parade route goes down the boulevard toward City Hall, then to 5th and Market streets for the main grandstand and performance. From the performance, the parade will continue to Front Street and then down to Penn’s Landing to finish. 

In terms of celebrating the special holiday, Philadelphia was recently ranked No. 3 of 200 U.S. metropolitan areas, according to WalletHub. Out of 200, Philly ranked high for its tradition, and was noted for its bars, parties, and beer – you know, the important stuff! 

Whether you attend the parade or watch it on TV, you can enjoy entertainment and fun from different groups, including Irish dance schools, marching bands, etc. Don’t forget to pick up a Shamrock Shake or some Irish Potato candy on the way!