One of the most celebrated and iconic events in the cultural life of NYC is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It is usually organized on March 17. Not only New Yorkers visit this event but also thousands of people come from the farthest countries. That is because it is one of the largest and most prestigious such parades in the world. It has a long and rich history and is related to Irish heritage and culture. Over the years, the event is an integral part of the city’s cultural life. Read more on newyorkski.info.
Parade’s history
The history of the parade started at the beginning of the 18th century. At that time the Irish began to emigrate to the US and settle in New York. However, they were very often discriminated against and oppressed. Such an event as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade allowed them to stick to their ancestors and pay tribute and remembrance of their heritage and culture.
A group of Irish soldiers who served in the British army organized it in NYC for the first time in 1762. Since then, the parade has grown into a large-scale event that annually attracts more than two million people. St. Patrick, the patron of Ireland, is honored during this event. Irish culture is popularized with its help. Thus, marching bands, pipers and dancers who perform traditional Irish dances take part in it. The parade route starts at 44th Street and Fifth Avenue and ends at 79th Street and Fifth Avenue.
Parade’s organization
The parade is a very well-organized event. It is carefully planned and prepared several months beforehand. Many volunteers work tirelessly on its organization for everything to go smoothly. They also work together with the New York Police Department and the city’s Department of Transportation to ensure the safety of the parade for all participants. Over the years of its history, the event gathers more and more people, not only from New York but also from other cities and countries. The number of participants in the 21st century reaches 150 thousand people and the total attendance of the event is 2 million people.
In addition to being a highly anticipated event for many residents and tourists, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is also a highly anticipated event for New York businesses. Many establishments located along the parade route, such as bars and restaurants, see a significant increase in revenue during the event. Thus, it is a boost for the development of the city’s economy, since most tourists come to New York precisely on March 17.
Various Irish societies and organizations are present at this event. All of them take part in the march and show their culture and pride in their Irish heritage. Prominent political figures, including the mayor of New York, and some US and Irish politicians, also participate in it.
It’s worth noticing that the parade has been held annually for 258 years. For the first time in history, it was canceled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. The traditional format was returned only in 2022 when the outbreaks of the epidemic stopped.
The New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the greatest celebrations of Irish culture and heritage. The parade is a very well-organized and carefully planned event. It is truly a cult NYC event, which gathers a great audience. It is evidence of the diversity of the city’s cultural identity.
