NYC In Focus

By Howard Weiss

Published on NYC in Focus | March 17, 2024

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Historic Tradition

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the world’s oldest and largest celebration of Irish heritage, once again brought Fifth Avenue alive with vibrant energy and color on March 16, 2024. Celebrating its 263rd edition, this iconic event honors the legacy of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland, and continues to be a hallmark of New York City’s cultural calendar. Stretching from East 44th Street to East 79th Street, the parade route was lined with over 2 million spectators cheering on more than 150,000 marchers, including bagpipers, pipe and drum bands, civic groups, and Irish dancers.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

From the echo of bagpipes to the dazzling performance of Irish step dancers, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade celebrates Irish pride in all its forms. I witnessed young performers in traditional regalia march proudly alongside veterans’ groups and local fire departments, their camaraderie and enthusiasm infectious. The grand marshal this year, Margaret “Maggie” Timoney, President & CEO of Heineken USA, led the procession. As the first woman to hold such a title in the U.S. beer industry, her presence brought a sense of trailblazing spirit to the parade.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

As a photographer, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade offered countless moments that embody the spirit of community and celebration. I found myself particularly drawn to the passion in the faces of parade participants—whether it was a piper focusing on his performance or children perched on their parents’ shoulders, waving enthusiastically. Each click of my camera lens felt like a tribute to the tradition and energy of the day. The green of the crowd mixed with the historical backdrop of Manhattan’s iconic landmarks created images that felt timeless.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the parade was witnessing families celebrating together. Parents dressed their children in Irish-themed outfits while older generations proudly waved Irish flags. I captured moments of spontaneous joy—smiles exchanged between strangers, groups dancing in rhythm to the bands, and veterans marching with dignified pride. It’s moments like these that make events such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade more than just a spectacle—they remind us of the power of heritage and community.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade is not just about tradition; it’s about resilience, history, and culture. Having started in 1762, the parade has marched through revolutions, world wars, depressions, and pandemics, serving as a constant in New York City’s ever-changing landscape. The effort behind the parade is equally inspiring. Organized entirely by volunteers, many of whom come from generations of dedicated families, this event takes months of planning and an incredible amount of heart.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

As the parade came to an end near East 79th Street, the energy remained electric. People continued to gather at nearby pubs and restaurants, sharing stories, laughter, and toasts to Irish heritage. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is more than a one-day celebration; it’s a reminder of the ties that bind us and the traditions that keep cultures alive.

Credit: Photo by Howard Weiss / nycinfocus.com

As a native New Yorker and documentary photographer, being part of the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade through my lens is always an honor. This event captures the essence of New York: diverse, vibrant, and united in celebration. Each photograph I take feels like preserving a piece of living history, ensuring that this tradition will continue to inspire future generations.