South Side Irish Eyes Smiling in the Rain

Every marcher and every spectator was a trouper in Sunday’s promenade down Western Avenue for the annual South Side Irish Parade. While many marched in emerald green ponchos and under umbrellas through a steady rain, it didn’t dampen the spirits of thousands of cheering neighbors and visitors from Beverly, Morgan Park, Mt. Greenwood and surrounding suburbs.

Over 100 entries filled the largest community-based St. Patrick’s Day parade outside of Ireland. The 2016 South Side Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade was led by Grand Marshal, South Siders Fighting Childhood Cancer. The group is comprised of several nonprofit entities focused on pediatric cancer including Live Like John, Emily Beazley’s Kures for Kids, Pat Mac’s Pack, Maeve McNicholas Memorial Foundation and Cameron’s Crusaders.

This year’s parade featured Special Honoree, the 100 Club of Chicago. Celebrating their 50th anniversary, The 100 Club of Chicago continues its commitment to help families of first responders in Cook and Lake counties ease the financial burden associated with losing a loved one in the line of duty.

The green clad throng cheered for pipe bands, marching bands, Irish dancing and numerous colorful floats representing community organizations from the city and suburbs. No arrests or incidents were reported along the parade route, parade organizers said.

The morning began with the Emerald Isle Mile hosted by Running Excels. The one-mile timed run was held before the parade stepped off where runners ran the parade route. The men’s race was won by Joseph Lerner from Chicago. Annabelle Winters from Chicago was the first female finisher.

“I am so proud of the entire community and all those that came out to responsibly support the parade despite the rain,” said Pat Coakley in a news release, co-chairman of the South Side Irish Parade Committee. “My father co-founded the parade in 1979 and I am thrilled this great tradition continues with its focus on faith, family and community.”