St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated every year on March 17th, is a cultural and religious holiday originating from Ireland. It commemorates St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
However, the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day is not limited to Ireland. It has crossed oceans and continents, and today, Also St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Scranton in the United States.
St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton
In Scranton, St. Patrick’s Day is not just a one-day event; it’s a celebration that the city looks forward to all year.
Known for hosting one of the largest and most popular St. Patrick’s Day parades in the United States, Scranton turns into a hub of Irish pride and cultural celebration during this time.
The city streets are awash with green as residents and visitors, young and old, come together to enjoy the parade, don traditional Irish attire, indulge in Irish food and drinks, and partake in the festive spirit.
History of St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton
Origin of the Celebration
St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated in Scranton for many years, with the first recorded parade taking place in the 1860s.
The event was initially organized by the St. Patrick’s Day Observance Association, a group of Irish immigrants who wanted to preserve their cultural heritage and share it with their new community.
Evolution of the Parade
Over the years, the parade has grown in size and popularity. What started as a small procession of Irish immigrants has now become a grand spectacle attracting over 100,000 spectators from all over the country.
The parade features a variety of participants, including local schools, businesses, and community groups, as well as professional performers and marching bands.
Significance in Local Culture
The St. Patrick’s Day parade has become a significant part of Scranton’s cultural identity. It’s a day when the city’s Irish heritage is proudly displayed and celebrated.
But it’s not just about Irish pride. The parade is a community event that brings together people of all backgrounds. It’s a testament to Scranton’s diverse and inclusive community spirit.
Recap of St. Patrick’s Day 2023 in Scranton
Overview of the Celebration
The St. Patrick’s Day celebration in 2023 was a memorable event that brought joy and excitement to the city of Scranton. Despite the challenges posed by the global situation, the city managed to host a successful and safe event that adhered to all health and safety guidelines.
Highlights of the Parade
The parade was the centerpiece of the celebration, featuring a variety of participants. Here are some of the highlights:
- Local Schools: Many local schools participated in the parade, with students proudly marching and showcasing their school spirit.
- Community Groups: Various community groups and organizations took part in the parade, representing the diverse cultures and communities of Scranton.
- Professional Performers: The parade was enlivened by professional performers who entertained the crowd with their skills and talents.
- Marching Bands: Several marching bands provided lively music that set the festive mood for the parade.
Impact on the Local Community
The St. Patrick’s Day celebration had a significant impact on the local community. It boosted local businesses, especially those in the hospitality and retail sectors. Moreover, it fostered a sense of community and brought people together in a shared celebration.
Key Locations of the Celebration
St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton is a city-wide celebration, but certain key locations become the focal points of the festivities. Let’s take a tour of these places:
Parade Route
The parade route is the heart of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. It’s where all the action takes place. The parade starts at St. Peter’s Cathedral, winds its way through downtown Scranton, and ends at the Lackawanna County Courthouse. Here’s a brief overview of the route:
- St. Peter’s Cathedral: The starting point of the parade, this historic cathedral is a significant landmark in Scranton.
- Downtown Scranton: As the parade moves through the downtown area, spectators can enjoy the festivities from various vantage points.
- Lackawanna County Courthouse: The parade concludes at this historic courthouse, marking the end of the procession but not the end of the celebrations.
Important Landmarks
Along the parade route, several important landmarks add to the charm and historical significance of the celebration. These include:
- The Electric City Sign: An iconic symbol of Scranton, the Electric City Sign is a popular backdrop for parade photos.
- The Scranton Times Building: Home to the local newspaper, this building is a significant part of Scranton’s history and culture.
- The Mall at Steamtown: This popular shopping destination is a great place for spectators to catch the parade and enjoy some shopping.
Popular Spots for Spectators
There are several popular spots along the parade route where spectators gather to watch the festivities.
These include Courthouse Square, where the parade concludes, and the areas around the Electric City Sign and The Mall at Steamtown.
St. Patrick’s Day Traditions in Scranton
Unique Customs and Traditions
St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton is not just about the parade; it’s also about the unique customs and traditions that the city has embraced and made its own.
- Wearing of Green: Just like in many other places, wearing green is a must on St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton. From green clothes and accessories to green face paint, you’ll see a sea of green in the city on this day.
- Irish Music and Dance: Irish music, especially live performances by local bands, is a big part of the celebration. You’ll also see traditional Irish dances being performed at various venues.
- Irish Food and Drinks: Local restaurants and pubs offer special menus for the day, featuring traditional Irish dishes and drinks.
Local Delicacies
Here are some of the Irish delicacies you can enjoy in Scranton on St. Patrick’s Day:
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that’s a favorite in Scranton on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Stew: A hearty and comforting dish made with lamb, potatoes, and carrots.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that’s a staple in Irish cuisine.
- Guinness: No St. Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without this famous Irish stout.
Expectations for St. Patrick’s Day 2024 in Scranton
Anticipated Date and Schedule of Events
While the exact date of the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day parade in Scranton is yet to be announced, it’s typically held on the Saturday before March 17th.
The day usually starts with a Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral, followed by the parade, and then various festivities throughout the city.
Expected Participants and Attractions
The 2024 parade is expected to be as grand as ever, with a variety of participants and attractions. We can look forward to seeing local schools, community groups, and businesses marching in the parade. Professional performers and marching bands will also be there to entertain the crowd.
Preparations and Recommendations for Attendees
If you’re planning to attend the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Scranton, here are some recommendations:
- Arrive Early: The parade attracts a large crowd, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Dress Appropriately: Remember to wear green and dress for the weather. March in Scranton can be chilly.
- Plan Your Day: Check the official parade website for the schedule and route. Plan your day accordingly.
Related Post
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- Saint Patrick’s Day in San Diego
- Saint Patrick’s Day in Columbia
Conclusion
St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of Irish heritage, a testament to the city’s community spirit, and a day of fun and festivity that brings people together. From its historical significance to its unique traditions and customs, St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton offers a vibrant experience.
We’ve taken a journey through the history of St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton, revisited the 2023 celebration, explored the key locations of the festivities, delved into the unique traditions, and looked forward to the 2024 celebration.
Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or someone interested in cultural events, we hope this blog post has given you a deeper understanding and appreciation of St. Patrick’s Day in Scranton.
Most shops and pubs will be closed and if pubs do open they may open later and close earlier than usual. Public transport does operate but under restrictions. A party atmosphere grips Ireland on St Patrick’s Day.
The New York City parade (150,000 participants and 2 million spectators) and the Chicago parade (est. 2 million spectators) are two of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the US.
Saint Patrick’s Day, although a legal holiday only in Savannah, Georgia, and Suffolk County, Massachusetts, is nonetheless widely recognized and celebrated throughout the United States.
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Saint Patricks Day is your go-to guide for everything related to this significant Irish celebration. We strive to provide detailed and accurate information about the history, traditions, and unique celebrations of Saint Patrick’s Day. Visit our About us for more information.
