The 130th annual Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade returns to the streets of Midtown on March 14.
This year’s parade steps off at noon at the intersection of Peachtree and 16th streets and continues south on Peachtree to the intersection of 5th Street. More than 200,000 people turned out for last year’s parade, and parade organizers are expecting a similar turnout this year.
More than 2,000 dancers, musicians, cheerleaders, clowns and Irish and local dignitaries are expected to march this year. The parade will again feature one of the world’s largest Irish “walking flags,” a large flag carried — or, more accurately, worn — by dozens of participants.
This year’s parade will also include the Wells Fargo stagecoach and an 11:45 a.m. performance by regional Irish dance groups to kick off the parade at the dignitaries’ reviewing stand at the intersection of Peachtree and 11th streets.
Another new addition: a 5K pre-parade run/walk through Midtown at 10 a.m. starting at the intersection of 12th and Juniper streets. The top male and female overall race winner will be invited to ride on a special float in the parade. For more information and a link to registration, visit atlantastpats.com.
Following the parade, head over to Atlantic Station for Shamrock the Station, a family-friendly event starting at 2 p.m. Central Park will host a variety of activities including face painting, sand art and cookie decorating with Great American Cookies. There will also be a photo booth and ice-cold beer from Meehan’s Public House.
DJ Pat O’Brien and Two Pipers and a Snare Drummer will play Irish-themed music while dancers from Mulligan School of Irish Dance perform a traditional step dance.
As the night continues, The Ruckus will hit Central Park’s stage at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks.
