South Side Irish Parade Will March In 2022 After Pandemic Pause

CHICAGO — The South Side Irish Parade will march on in 2022, after being canceled the two previous years due to the pandemic. The parade committee is finalizing plans for the parade, which will step off at noon on Sunday, March 13, at 103rd Street and Western Avenue.

“The stresses people have under and with COVID, everyone’s life has changed,” said Don Larisey, chair of the parade committee. “We’re getting a lot of support and excitement. It gives people in the neighborhood something to look forward to in the spring. It’s a coming out party after a rough winter.”

Bears games, Lollapalooza and other outdoor and indoor events have come back.

“We won’t be the first event coming back. From a planning perspective, there is experience already in play,” Larisey said. “We’re going in the right direction. We’re going to try to follow any guidance from the city and state.”

Later this week, the parade committee plans to unveil its new website, which will have more detailed information about being participating in the parade. Meanwhile, those who want to enter their parish, organization or marching band can email info@southsideIrishparade.org.

The parade committee will also be announcing the parade fundraiser, tentatively slated for late February.

“There will be different levels of participation for those with COVID concerns, as well as an in-person event,” Larisey said.

Grand marshals, honorees and the South Side Irish Parade queen will be announced in the coming weeks. Expect to see more security

Most important, the parade’s return will bring feet back into the neighborhood bars and restaurants that have relied on the parade as one of the year’s major money-making events.

“It’s a big thing to support the neighborhood businesses,” Larisey said. “They’ve been great partners in providing services and products. “It draws people to the area and highlights our neighborhood and community.”