# 95 - Watching the Kings Park St. Patrick's Day Parade

St. Patrick's Day brings up thoughts of shamrocks, leprechaun's, soda bread and of course, grand parades. Did you know that the first St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York was held in Manhattan on March 17, 1762? Kings Park, you've waited long enough and that's why this year's first annual Kings Park St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 5th makes our list of 100 Things To Do.

The inaugural parade will feature six colorful floats, including a decorated 30 foot lobster boat, courtesy of Glen Guerriero and the Kings Park Yacht Club. There will be 10 pipe bands, 10 fire departments, and over eighty- five other organizations marching during this two and a half hour event. Parade goers can expect to see antique cars, step dancers, baton twirlers, scout troops, school bands and much more.

The parade, which kicks off at noon, will be led by The Suffolk County Police Department Emerald Society Pipe and Drum Band and the Kings Park Fire Department. Expect plenty of goodies to be handed out. Groups such as the Kings Park Civic Association will be providing Irish derbies and shamrock stickers, while Vasari Salon will be giving out St. Patty’s Day wrist bands.

Grand Marshall, Matty O'Reilly, is a longtime Kings Park resident, having lived and worked in Kings Park for over 80 years. Kevin Denis, the president of the Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Committee, thinks Mr. O’Reilly is a perfect choice.  “Mattie O’Reilly,” says Kevin, “has not only served our country, but continues to serve our community through his work in the American Legion.”

The march will start at Kings Park Memorial Park, with the route allowing for ample viewing. From the park, marchers will make a left onto Pulaski Road from Lou Avenue, a right onto Main Street, a left onto Church Street and a right onto Old Dock Road, where it will end by St. Joseph’s church.

Although the parade ends at St. Joseph’s, the festivities will continue inside Travis Hall. There will be Irish dancing, coffee and cake, a Chinese auction, a 50/50 raffle and an Irish soda bread contest. The winner of the contest will receive a one hundred dollar gift certificate to Professors Diner.

Gerry Creighton, a member of the St. Patrick’s Day Committee says, “This parade looks to be the biggest thing that’s ever happened in Kings Park.” She admits that although it’s a lot of work, it’s all worthwhile. Kevin Denis adds, “It’s about keeping the community alive, having fun and entertaining the children.”

Whether you’re Irish, Irish at heart, look good in green, or just love a great parade, don’t miss this year’s Kings Park St. Patrick's Day Parade.  Erin Go Bragh !

Category: Outdoors, Family, Music, Dance
Price: Free
Season: Annual
Note:

March 5, 2011, starting at noon, begins at Kings Park Memorial Park, ending at St. Joseph’s Church.

Parade Tee Shirts being sold at Professors Diner for $10 each.

Visit www.kpstpat.com for parade updates.