SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ — It's that time again, time to don green and shamrocks and celebrate all things Irish at the Ocean County St. Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday in Seaside Heights.
And unlike recent years where rain has forced postponements, the weather is expected to cooperate. There is only a chance of rain in the morning, diminishing into the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. It will be cloudy with a high temperature in the upper 40s, and a slight breeze of up to 10 mph.
The parade day begins at 10 a.m. with the annual Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church at 100 Grant Ave., Seaside Heights.
The parade steps off at noon on the Boulevard. It begins at J Street and marches north to Carteret Avenue.
There will be marching bands, Irish organizations, floats and lots of Irish spirit.
The grand marshal is Sammy Hammer of the Crabs Claw Inn, and Peggy Hurley, who serves on the parade committee, was named Irishwoman of the Year.
There is a celebration after the parade with the Massed Band performing "Amazing Grace" and the presentation of a 40-foot American flag.
The after party at the Hershey Motel, 1415 Boulevard, begins at 2 p.m. and is slated to include a performance by the Drunkin' Clams.
For those who want to start the celebration early, several restaurants and bars in Seaside Heights will be open before the parade.
Parking is available along Central Avenue and along the boardwalk as usual, along with multiple lots.
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