‘Sea Of Green’ Delights Crowd At West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of West Orange Public Information Officer Joseph Fagan. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The annual West Orange St. Patrick's Day Parade is a lively and spirited celebration featuring a vibrant display of Irish culture and pride. It captivates the community and transforms Main Street into a sea of green as enthusiastic spectators gather along the route of the green stripe to engage in the Irish tradition.

Rain had been persistent throughout Saturday evening into the overnight hours, but the weather gods eventually relented. The morning sun peeked through as the clouds parted casting a surge of optimism among parade-goers. It set the tone for the day as the traditional St. Patrick’s Day Mass at St. Joseph’s Church in West Orange was celebrated by Pastor Jose Erlito Ebron.

The parade started at West Orange Town Hall and was led down Main Street by this year’s Grand Marshal Patrick E. O’Rourke. Deputy Grand Marshals were Dennis Clearly, Larry Lonergan, and Matthew Mulligan. All marched proudly with a supportive contingent of family and friends. West Orange Mayor Susan McCartney and other elected officials along with representatives of the Essex County government were all part of the parade procession which marches north to Eagle Rock Avenue.

The parade now in its 71st year represents a year of planning by the all-volunteer West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. It was another outstanding effort as the parade deeply rooted within the fabric of the local Irish community exceeded all expectations. At the heart of the parade’s purpose is to bring together people of all ages and backgrounds. Families, friends, and neighbors join the celebration, fostering a sense of unity and pride that transcends individual differences. The atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement as the parade winds its way along Main Street leaving a trail of smiles and laughter in its wake.

It’s not just an event, it's a cherished tradition that brings the community together to showcase Irish culture and create lasting memories. Pipe Bands, Drum and Bugle Corps, various High School Bands from around the region, community organizations, West Orange Fire and Police, and ethnic dancers all participated including the award-winning West Orange High School Mountaineer band and the cadets of the high school Air Force Jr. ROTC. Beyond the parade itself, the celebration extends to the local businesses and establishments who join in the festive spirit. Their financial support greatly contributes to the parade’s success.

The last echoes of the bag pipes faded but Irish music and tradition will continue in the hearts of marchers and spectators until next time. The green painted stripe down Main Street will keep Irish eyes smiling all year. It has come to symbolize the warmth and cheerfulness often associated with the Irish spirit and the beloved annual tradition of the West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

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