St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches back to Downtown

Hundreds of revelers came out for the “Greatest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the nation” on March 16.

Despite the blustery cold, people lined the 5th Street from Rice Park to Mears Park to celebrate the city’s Irish heritage at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown St. Paul.

The annual event, organized by the St. Patrick’s Association, featured dozens of parade entries, from local politicians, like Mayor Melvin Carter and Senator Amy Klobochar, and businesses to fan favorites like the Vulcan Krewe and St. Paul Bouncing Team along with people representing their Irish “clans.” 

According to the St. Patrick’s Association’s website, they have been organizing the annual event since 1967.

This year’s event was held on March 16, the day before St. Patrick’s Day, because the holiday would have fallen on a Sunday, which organizers have historically avoided.

Check out some of our photos of the festivities.