If you’re Irish, or you enjoy being Irish for a day, then next weekend is the big one. For some revelers, the Old Neighborhood St. Patrick’s Day Parade is where it’s at. The parade is run by the Valley Community Center (VCC), which is also where it starts. The Saturday parade is a fan favorite for those who don’t like the massive celebratory nature of the city’s official parade that takes place on the following day. The Old Neighborhood St. Patrick’s Day Parade (aka the Old First Ward parade) is a real humdinger and consists of a much more neighborly vibe. It’s more of a tight-nit parade that winds around historic old neighborhoods. If you have not attended this parade, it’s a real hoot. Even though it’s not nearly as big as the Sunday parade, it has just as much heart. Saturday, March 19, 2016 | 12:00 – 5:00pm | Valley Community Center | Dedicated in memory of Eddie Smith
The official Sunday Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is the one that makes the list as one of the largest in the country. It puts Buffalo on the map as a city that truly knows how to celebrate the spirit of being Irish, whether one is Irish or not. The parade is held between City Hall and North Street, along Delaware Avenue. This parade is one that appears to go on forever, with crowds roaring from the sidelines. Most Buffalonians have participated in this parade in one manner or another. On this day, there are house parties all over the city (in the morning), where people pre-party for the big event. And unlike a football game, everyone wins on this very special green holiday. Sunday, March 20, 2016 | 2:00pm | Delaware Avenue | The parade Grand Marshal is Jennifer Letina | Dedicated to the memory of James Speyer
Photo: Old Neighborhood St. Patrick’s Day Parade – VCC on Facebook