The Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade Ball is here!

PARADE BALL TO HONOR IRISH HERITAGE ON MARCH 7

There is no greater place to be Irish than New Haven. Since its inception in March 1842, The Greater New Haven St. Patrick’s Day Parade has held fast to Irish pride, tradition and family. Before the parade hits the streets on March 15, 2015, a long-celebrated event precedes its pageantry; The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade Ball.

Often considered the social highlight of parade season, the Ball officially introduces the Parade Grand Marshal, The Queen, the Committee, and the Honorees to the community in a formal event shaped throughout the evening with flavors and heraldry reminiscent of grand days past.

This year, the Parade honors Grand Marshal, Timothy F. Gallogly of North Branford. Tim, along with his parents, has been involved with the Irish organizations all their lives. Tim became an active member of the Parade Committee after his father passed away in 2001.

Celebrating alongside the Grand Marshal are distinguished honorees: Edward McCarthy, Lt. William Tinker, Ret. NHPD, and Joanne Conlan. Many know Coach Ed McCarthy and his 32 years leading the West Haven Blue Devils. Lt. William Tinker, Ret. NHPD, served on the New Haven Police Department from 1972 to 1998. Along with his duties with Harbor Patrol and the Department Scuba Team, he was a founding member of the New Haven Emerald Society which promotes Irish culture and heritage within the law enforcement community. Joanne Conlan hails from West Haven and has been President of the West Haven Irish American Club. Her daughter, Moriah, was the 2004 Parade Queen. Joanne’s husband, Glenn Conlan, has also received recognition at the Parade Ball.

Special recognition will also be made for the late Donald “Cliff” Thompson. Cliff, as he was known by his friends on the Parade Committee, was known as a volunteer for any task and known to try and find a better way. Cliff was also known for his love of the Irish walking stick. Many committee members are lucky to own one of his crafted sticks.

The Parade Queen and the Honor Attendant, chosen February 28, will make their very first formal, public appearances.

The Parade Ball will be held at Yale Commons on Saturday, March 7, 2015 and will no doubt be a night to remember not only for the Honorees, but for the entire Irish Community. Please join us in the celebration, pride, and tradition. Enjoy Dinner, dancing, and open bar at the Yale Commons on Saturday, March 7, 2015. Entertainment will be provided all night long by “Just one More” and DJs, the Kennedy’s.

For further information or to purchase your tickets, please visit the Parade website at www.stpatricksdayparade.org