Ocean City feels Irish luck with big return of St. Patrick’s Day parade/festival
OCEAN CITY, Md. – “There’s floats, music, and more. It’s just a good ole fashion parade,” Festival Goer Kimberly Everson said.
The Delmarva Irish American Club had a little luck on their side Saturday.
After 3 years, the group brought the highly anticipated St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival back to Ocean City. “When we started the parade there was nobody in Ocean City in March. Through the years, the parade has grown. More and more people have come down to celebrate,” DIAC President Rick Meehan said.
Green beer, bold floats, and festive getup were just some of sights to see.
Depending on who you asked, the meaning of the day varied. “It means corn beef and cabbage. Laughs. We celebrate all holidays at our house, so this is a special one as well,” Festival Goer Jennifer Creed said.
“The kids are excited, candy’s being thrown everywhere, and everyone’s just so dressed up and in a good mood and really enjoying each other. It’s just nice to see a bunch of happy people.”
The event is also the biggest celebration for the holiday in state of Maryland and brings thousands to the resort town.
That includes a group called The Wild & Crazy Gang who traveled all the way from Hagerstown Maryland. “Just being able to get together as a group of friends and family,” Festival Goer Ernie Giancola said.
Mayor Rick Meehan also tells us the celebration is considered the unofficial end of the off-season which means the sight of green is hopefully there to stay. “Lots of businesses open this weekend because its parade weekend and stay open. So, it’s a kickoff and an exciting time,” Meehan said,
It’s also important to note that the Ocean City Police Department was awarded grant funding for additional impaired driving enforcement.
That means there will be an increased presence of officers on patrol looking for drug and alcohol-impaired drivers during the parade and actual holiday weekend.
If you’re out celebrating, you’re asked to plan ahead to ensure a safe way home.
