Across the state, Pennsylvania sure knows how to celebrate the luck of the Irish each March. Here is a quick look at parades and activities families in each city can enjoy:
Right in our capital, the Capital Region Association of Irish and Celts host a handful of events between March 11 – 19 to celebrate the Irish in everyone! Proceeds from their events and fundraisers go towards a scholarship fund for local students, but you don’t have to be Irish to apply.
In the north eastern part of the state, Scranton claims it holds the second largest parade in the country (for cities with a population of over 50,000) which will take place this year on March 12. Prior to the parade, the city also hosts the Brian. P Kelly Memorial Footrace, in honor of the late St. Patrick’s Parade Association President who passed away in 2004 of cancer.
Sponsored by the Church of St. Patrick, Erie families can enjoy their parade on Saturday, March 12 at 2 pm. This year marks the only 39th anniversary of the parade, but the church is one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the city. The parade route runs through downtown Erie and ends right in front of the historic church!
In Pittsburgh, the city is embracing the 100th Anniversary of The Easter Rising, which led to the Irish Revolution and ultimately to the establishment of the Republic of Ireland as we know it today, and using that as their theme! On Tuesday, March 8 members of the city council will make an official proclamation announcing “St. Patrick’s Week in Pittsburgh” with their parade and family friendly parade fest in Market Square kicking off at 10 am on Saturday, March 12.
For the first time this year, the Philadelphia the 246th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be broadcast LIVE on Fox29 in the southeastern part of the state from noon – 3 pm on Sunday, March 13. It will also re-air on March 17 during the same timeframe. The Philadelphia parade features several of the cities unique string bands, more commonly known as mummers. Also in Philadelphia, WHYY will host a family friendly party from 4 pm – 7 pm with plenty of live music, Irish dancing, and no adult beverages.
May the Luck of the Irish be with you and your family!
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