PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — After a 2-year hiatus, the luck of the Irish spread through Philadelphia Sunday, with the 250th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.
The Irish in Philadelphia first celebrated St. Patrick's Day in 1771, five years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. That holy observance evolved over time into the affair we know now.
But in 2020, the parade was one of the first big events the city canceled over COVID concerns.
Sunday, the event made its triumphant return.
Jeri McClennen was one of hundreds of people who marched down John F. Kennedy Boulevard from Center City to Old City.
"This is my first time. It feels great, just to be outside, walking around," she said.
McClennen was joined by her nephew, Scott, who said the sea of green clothes, the smiling faces, the good libations and music helped make for the perfect parade.
"Typically it’s like an indicator that spring has finally arrived and that the clocks are moving forward, and that we’ll soon see leaves on the trees again," he said.
And Alfred Plouis said he's also happy to have the parade back, as it's one of his favorite days each year.
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"I've done this for two years before the pandemic it was a lot of fun. I have friends and family who also marched as well, dancers as well as different unions. So it's a lot of fun. It's cool," he shared.
"What I like about St. Patrick's Day is that everyone gets together for a common camaraderie and it's more of a positive gathering."
Although the parade is Sunday, the actual holiday is March 17. It celebrates St. Patrick and the arrival of Christianity to Ireland.
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