Philadelphia St. Patricks Day Parade
The Irish in Philadelphia First Celebrated St. Patrick's Day in 1771, Five Years Before the Declaration of Independence Was Signed !
Mon, Mar 17, 2025
The first documented St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Parade in Philadelphia was held in 1771, marking OVER 250 continuous years of celebrations. The current parade, which is hosted by the St. Patrick’s Day Observance Association, was incorporated as a non-profit corporation in 1952.
Philadelphia’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a long-standing event of great civic pride. The Annual Parade is held on the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day. If March 17th falls on a Sunday, the Parade Board has the option of having it on March 10th, since so many groups who march are already committed to other events. This Delaware Valley event is the largest Philadelphia Parade by number of participants, approximately 20,000. More than 200 groups are represented in the parade including: Marching bands, dance groups, youth groups and Irish Associations. Thousands of spectators line the Parkway to enjoy the Parade each year.
Irish Americans have celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in Philadelphia since their arrival in America. George Washington, a member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, actively encouraged Irish American patriots to join his colonial army. Over the years, these celebrations reflected the times with several themes emerging;- religious, patriotism honoring military service, remembrance of the political struggles in Ireland and a celebration of Irish culture. The common theme remains honoring St. Patrick’s work.
Throughout the years this celebration has honored this religious and cultural celebration. Thousands of marchers and spectators in their green bedecked finery, the bands and floats, the flags and music highlight one of the grandest parades in a city that loves parades.