Bayside, N.Y. – The ‘Wearin’ ‘O the Green’ was strong and steady as the first Saint Patrick’s Day Parade was held today at 10 a.m. down Bell Boulevard.
Enthusiasts marched down Bayside’s ‘main street’ between 36th and 41st Avenues to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. Nearly 20 community groups participated in the parade according to Kieran Mahoney, one of the event organizers. There was no shortage of Irish dance schools and bands. Those that marched include groups from Blessed Sacrament Catholic Academy, Sacred Heart Catholic Academy of Bayside and Holy Cross High School. Mahoney said the parade turnout was larger than expected.
Planning for the inaugural event began last October including raising funds to pull off the event. A dinner dance was held in January at VIVO! Mediterranean Grill & Catering and musical events were run by Monahan & Fitzgerald, a local Irish pub. The celebration was also sponsored by local businesses
The Grand Marshal of the parade was Pat Lynch, President of the Patrolman’s Benevolent Association of the City of New York (NYCPBA).
The parade promises to be an annual event along Bayside’s famed Bell Boulevard.
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