Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Facts and Information

St.Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17 in observance of the death of St. Patrick. He was the patron saint of Ireland, known for bringing Christianity to the country. The day is celebrated with parades, music, dancing, and lots of green. 

St. Patrick’s Day Parade History

The oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in 1601 in Florida. Irish vicar Ricardo Arthur organized the first St. Patrick’s Day and the parade. In 1760s Irishmen serving the British military in New York organized the St.Patrick’s Day parade. In 1800, the Irish catholic immigrants faced discrimination. So they used the parade as an opportunity to show their strength in numbers.

First St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The first parade recorded was held in St. Augustine, Florida. It is said that the parade was held on March 17, 1601, in a Spanish colony. 

Biggest St. Patrick Day Parade

New York host’s the world’s largest St. Patrick Day parade with over two million people. Nearly 150,000 to 250,000 participants include politicians, bagpipes, bands, police, firefighters, dancers, and municipal workers. Cars and floats are not allowed in the parade. 

Today the parade travels 1.5 miles up to the fifth avenue in Manhattan. The parade starts at 11 am on 44th street and ends at 79th street, covering St. Patrick’s Cathedral along the way. 

What To Wear on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade?

Americans wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. Earlier, the official color of St. Patrick’s Day was sky blue. But later, blue was replaced by green. The reason behind wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day was because of Ireland’s nickname, the emerald isle, and the green stripe in the Irish flag. The Irish immigrants believe that wearing green made them invisible to leprechauns. It is said that leprechauns pinch anyone whom they can see.  Chicago goes a step- ahead and dyed its river bright green.