Ocean County St. Patrick's Day Parade Returns To Seaside Heights

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ — The Ocean County St. Patrick's Day Parade, is scheduled to return to the Boulevard in Seaside Heights on Saturday, celebrating Irish heritage throughout the state.

The parade returns after a one-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic — the March 7, 2020 parade was one of the last large public events before the spreading pandemic prompted shutdowns across the country.

Related: Ocean County St. Patrick's Day Parade Postponed Due To Weather

The 2022 parade is scheduled to include several longstanding traditions, including a parade Mass before the event and the Massed Band at the end of the parade, the Ocean County St. Patrick's Day Parade committee said.

"Everyone is invited to join us on parade day as the parade committee celebrates our annual Mass," the committee said, noting it's been celebrated for 40 years. The parade Mass starts at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 100 Grant Ave.

The parade steps off between I and J streets about noon and travels to Hiering Avenue before the Massed Band gathering at the Hershey Motel, 1415 Boulevard, where the parade committee will present a 40-foot American flag.

The Hershey Motel will be the site of the post-parade party and will have the group Ballyhaunis as entertainment.

"On this day, as we honor St. Patrick and celebrate the Irish-American heritage, let us have fun but keep the parade dignified," wrote Thomas King, parade chairman.

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