The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade made its way back to Fifth Avenue, drawing thousands of spectators to celebrate one of New York City’s longest-running traditions. 

Held every year since 1762, the parade — older than the Declaration of Independence — marked its 264th run on Monday, March 17, filling the streets from East 44th to East 79th street with community spirit and Irish pride. 

Jovial cheers filled the air as parade-goers lined the sidewalks, decked in shades of green and waving Irish flags. 

With drum corps and bagpipes piercing the air, the procession kicked off under cloudy skies, with the rain holding off despite earlier forecasts of downpours. 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, NY Governor Honorable Kathy Hochul, and NY Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch were among the first wave of marchers followed by the NY State Courts Pipes and Drums. 

Marching bands, traditional Irish pipe and drum ensembles, and Irish county associations continued on the avenue, while divisions of local and national Irish groups like Nassau and Westchester counties showcased their pride. 

Formation officer Michael Scanlon, parade participant of  25 years and current overseer of parade orderliness, says his favorite part of attending is “getting everyone together in a good charm to celebrate the heritage that we [Ireland] have, but America has too.”  

Kathleen Reilly, a march judge for 24 years, says this year’s parade felt more organized than it had been in years past. “It’s not as loose and as crazy as it used to be, like back when I was in high school, it was a free-for-all and now there’s more discipline and people take it a lot more seriously.”

With performers from across the country, including Florida and New Hampshire, and spectators from as far as Italy, Scotland, and New Jersey, Scanlon’s sentiment holds strong. The parade remains a pillar in the Irish community — not just in New York City, but as a global celebration of cultural heritage and values for both Irish and non-Irish people.

The exact number of participants on Monday is unknown, but as it has for more than two centuries, the parade endured — no matter the forecast.