New York City is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, with its historic 264th annual parade along Fifth Avenue. Recognised as the world’s oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade, the event will feature approximately 150,000 participants and attract around 2 million spectators.
New Yorkers are gearing up to shamrock and roll as the city prepares for the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world. On Monday (March 17), Fifth Avenue will come alive with music, marching bands, and a sea of green as more than 150,000 participants take to the streets for this historic event.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which dates back to 1762, will march through the heart of midtown Manhattan, continuing its tradition of honoring Irish heritage.
Parade details
The procession will commence at 11:00 AM at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street, proceeding past notable landmarks such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Central Park, before concluding at 79th Street. The parade showcases a diverse array of participants, including bagpipers, marching bands, cultural organizations, and community groups, all celebrating Irish heritage.
Start time: 11:00 AM Eastern
End time: Approximately 3:00 PM Eastern
Broadcast: WNBC (11 AM – 2 PM) and Cozi TV (11 AM – 3 PM)
Grand Marshal
Leading this year’s parade is Michael Benn, a 75-year-old retired carpenter and grandfather from Queens. Originally from Limerick, Ireland, Benn has been deeply involved in the Irish-American community, notably organizing the Queens County St. Patrick’s Day Parade for decades. His dedication to promoting Irish culture and community service earned him the honor of serving as grand marshal, a role he described as “every Irishman’s dream.”
Spectators line up parade route
Spectators lined the parade route, adorned in green attire and accessories, embodying the festive spirit of the day. Many arrived early to secure prime viewing spots, with some bringing chairs and ladders for better visibility. The atmosphere was lively, filled with music, dance, and the camaraderie of shared celebration.
Safety measures
To ensure public safety during the festivities, street closures were implemented along the parade route, and law enforcement presence was heightened. Attendees were advised to use public transportation, as parking and traffic were significantly affected.
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