Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade Overview
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade is a cornerstone event in this Massachusetts town, known as "the most Irish town in America." With nearly 50% of residents claiming Irish ancestry, the parade celebrates the community's rich heritage. Originating in 1995 as a small neighborhood procession, it has grown into a major South Shore attraction. The 2.3-mile route through scenic Scituate Harbor draws thousands of enthusiastic spectators from the region and beyond. Now considered the largest St. Patrick's Day parade on the South Shore, it requires over $60,000 to organize and features bands, floats, and antique cars. The event not only honors Irish culture but also brings together the entire community in a festive atmosphere.
Parade Date and Time
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Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
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Time: 1:00 PM
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Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours
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Note: Always check official sources for any last-minute changes or updates
Parade Route
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Starting point: Veterans Memorial Gym, 327 First Parish Road
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Route:
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Down First Parish Road
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Left onto Front Street
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Through Scituate Harbor
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Up Beaver Dam Road
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Right onto Jericho Road
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Ending point: Near the intersection of Jericho Road and Hatherly Road34
Location and Directions
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade takes place in the heart of Scituate, Massachusetts. The parade begins at the Veterans Memorial Gym, located at 327 First Parish Road (formerly the Gates Intermediate School). This starting point is easily accessible and serves as a central location for parade participants and spectators to gather.
For those unfamiliar with the area, Scituate is situated on the South Shore of Massachusetts, approximately 25 miles southeast of Boston. The parade route winds through the town, offering views of Scituate Harbor and the surrounding coastal landscape. Visitors can use GPS navigation to the starting point address or follow signs to Scituate Harbor, which is a key landmark along the parade route.
Parking and Transportation
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No parking on Front Street after 10:00 AM on parade day
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Recommended parking locations:
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Scituate High School (shuttle buses available)
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Widows Walk Golf Course parking lot (look for parking signs)
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Shuttle service:
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Begins at 11:00 AM
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Runs from parking areas to parade route
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Picks up at Widows Walk Golf Course lot, drops off at corner of 1st Parish Road and Front Street
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Returns after parade ends
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Advice: Arrive early as parking in Scituate Harbor will be limited34
Parade History and Origins
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade began in 1995 in the Minot neighborhood. Jim and Janet Campbell, along with their neighbors, started a small procession around a block, featuring bands, homemade floats, and antique cars. As the event grew, safety concerns prompted its relocation to downtown Scituate. The Scituate Chamber of Commerce took over organization, followed by Ed Kelley as parade chairman in 1999. In 2016, the Scituate Harbor Business Association assumed responsibility. Today, the parade is managed by "Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade Inc.," a dedicated non-profit group4.
Pre-Parade Events and Activities
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Grand Marshals Dinner:
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Date: March 13, 2025
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Time: 6:00 PM
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Location: Widows Walk Golf Course
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Features: Corned beef and cabbage or chicken dinner, presentations by local officials
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Ticket price: $20
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Mayor's Race:
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Voting closes: March 13, 2025
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Cost: $10 per vote
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Winner announced at Grand Marshals Dinner
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St. Patrick's Plunge:
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Date: March 15, 2025
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Time: 12:00 PM
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Location: Humarock Beach
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Meeting point: The Voyage Restaurant and Pub
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Reward: St. Pats Plunge beach towel for every $100 raised
Mayor Election and Candidates
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade features a unique tradition of electing an Honorary Mayor. Candidates run fundraising campaigns to support the parade, with each dollar raised counting as a vote. The candidate who raises the most money wins the title and rides in the parade as Mayor. All candidates are invited to participate in the parade regardless of the outcome. Voting is done in $10 increments, with each $10 vote entering the donor into a raffle for cash prizes. The winner is announced at the Grand Marshal Dinner on March 14, 2025, at The Drift In located at Widows Walk Golf Course.
Participation and Registration
To participate in the Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade:
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Contact the Parade Committee for registration details
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Options for participation include:
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Marching groups
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Floats
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Bands
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Antique cars
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Fundraising events are encouraged to support the parade
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Local businesses and organizations can become sponsors
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Individuals can volunteer to help with parade organization
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For more information, visit www.weloveaparade.com
Additional Activities and Fundraisers
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade is accompanied by several fundraising events and activities that enhance community involvement and support the parade's organization. These include:
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The Mad Hatter's Ball: A festive pre-parade celebration
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The Annual Mayor's Race: A fundraising competition to elect the parade's honorary mayor
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The St. Pat's Plunge: A chilly dip into the Atlantic Ocean at Peggotty Beach, raising money for local charities
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Untold Brewery IPA Launch: The unveiling of a new IPA called "We Love A Parade" on March 7th
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Parade Supporter Stickers: Window or bumper stickers available for a $5 or more donation
These events not only raise necessary funds but also build excitement and community spirit leading up to the parade. Local businesses often contribute to auctions and raffles, further supporting the parade's fundraising efforts.
FAQs
What time is the Scituate St. Patrick's Day parade?
The parade starts at 1:00 PM on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
How can I participate in the Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade?
Contact the Parade Committee through their website www.weloveaparade.com for registration details on marching groups, floats, or other participation options.
Where are the best spots to watch the Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade?
Good viewing spots can be found along Front Street, through Scituate Harbor, and along Beaver Dam Road. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially in the harbor area.
Conclusion
The Scituate St. Patrick's Day Parade is a vibrant celebration of Irish heritage and community spirit. From the parade route through scenic Scituate Harbor to the various pre-parade events, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're participating, watching, or supporting through fundraisers, the parade offers a chance to be part of a cherished local tradition. Remember to check official sources for any updates and plan your day to make the most of this annual celebration.
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