Randy Shemanski
The birds are chirping, the snow has melted (mostly) and with each passing day comes more green popping up around the area. That can only mean one thing, right?
No, not spring. Actually, yes, but that’s not what we’re talking about. Instead of green grass, green people will line the streets of Scranton on Saturday for the annual St. Patrick’s Parade. In its 48th year, the parade brings more than 100,000 people into downtown Scranton on one day, some for the parade and some for, well, green beer.
The parade is the second-largest St. Patrick’s parade in the country, trailing only the one held in Savannah, Ga., and one spot ahead of New York City. With more than 10,000 participants, the parade route stretches approximately nine city blocks, starting at the corner of Mulberry Street and Wyoming Avenue and ending on North Washington Ave. between Linden and Mulberry streets.
Since the streets will be teaming with Irish people and Irish wannabes, we’ll give you a quick rundown of what you need to know if you’re heading to the Electric City on Parade Day.
1. Official parade events begin at 10 a.m.
Latest reports suggest that the annual Mass prior to the parade will go on at St. Peter’s Cathedral, although the Bishop’s mood could change that. In any case, Mass begins at 10 a.m., followed by the Brian P. Kelly Memorial Race at 11 a.m. The race is a 2-mile run that begins and ends in front of the Scranton Cultural Center. The parade itself officially steps off at 11:15 a.m.
2. Unofficial parade events begin at 9 a.m.
In other words, the downtown bars will be open for business in time for you to wash down the last bite of that chocolate glazed donut with a pint of Guiness. (I know, that thought makes me sick to my stomach, too.) That’s two hours later than many are used to, but it’s the second straight year for the 9 a.m. opening, which the city hopes will curtail any issues with rowdy revelers.
3. If you want to park downtown, arrive early
Many city streets will be closed because of the parade route, so some parking downtown will be unavailable. That’ll make what parking is available even more sought after, so we suggest arriving between 8 and 9 a.m. if you don’t want to walk more than a few blocks. If you’re arriving early to get in line for green beer, we strongly urge taking a cab for reasons we shouldn’t have to explain.
4. Dress in layers
Early forecasts indicate an overnight low in the mid-20s and a daytime high around 43 with sunny skies. So if you’re planning on standing outside for the entire parade, you’ll want to shed some clothing as the sun rises throughout the morning. Even though the temps may be on the cooler side, walking around combined with the sunshine will make it feel warmer than it is.
5. Enjoy the celebration
Parade Day is a day for celebration whether you’re Irish or not. While most in attendance will be all smiles, there are always a select few who find a way to ruin things for those in the near vicinity. Don’t be that guy. The downtown is never as crowded as it is on Parade Day, so be polite to the person next to you, even if he or she bumps into you. For all you know, the someone three people away caused all the bumping, so there’s no need to get hostile.
And, as always, if you’re going to drink, please drink responsibly.
For more info on the Scranton St. Patrick’s Parade, visit the official Web site at www.stpatparade.com.