Hometown Irish Parade Grand Marshal, Princess Revealed

PLAINFIELD, IL — A spring tradition since 2002, the Hometown Irish Parade is returning to the streets of Plainfield March 12.

Last year's event marked the first time the parade was hosted in two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosted by the Village Preservation Association, the event will step off at 1 p.m.

The parade lineup is expected to be announced by March 10.

"What was once a procession of little kids riding on bikes and in pulled wagons, moms and dads in tow, is now a major event that draws multiple bagpipe bands, Irish dancers, many community groups, amusement attractions, and thousands of spectators," Susie Carlman, a Village Preservation Association committee member, told Patch.

With about two weeks until the Hometown Irish Parade, organizers unveiled this year's grand marshal and parade princess: former Mayor Mike Collins and Ruby Tennis, respectively.

In an interview with the Village Preservation Association, Collins, who served as mayor for three terms until current Mayor John Argoudelis was elected in 2021, spoke of Plainfield's growth, which he has witnessed in his 77 years living in town.

"When I was a kid, Plainfield was 1,600 people," Collins said. "And now it’s 48,000. You knew everybody. And you knew everybody’s car."

Collins, who is 59 percent Irish, according to the Preservation Association, told organizers he is pleased to serve as the parade's grand marshal.

"The grand marshal, and the parade committee, are hopeful that any mists on parade day will be warm and welcoming," organizers wrote. "Just like Mike Collins’ hometown."

Tennis, a 17-year-old high school junior, has roots on the Emerald Isle. Her paternal ancestors lived in County Tipperary, among other places, before coming to the United States.

"My dad just told me how proud my grandpa would be that I'm keeping the Irish spirit in the family," she told the Village Preservation Association, adding she's "actually so excited" to walk in the parade.

When not in school, the teenager attends music and ballet lessons, volunteers at local food pantries and is involved with her church.

"She is such a fantastic young woman that I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know as her piano teacher," Plainfield resident Heather Finegan said of Tennis, who she sees as a "superb role model for other young women making their way to adulthood."

Additional information about sponsorships, donating to the parade efforts and how to volunteer can be found on the Hometown Irish Parade website.

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