HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Downtown Huntsville transforms into a sea of green for the Ellen McAnelly Memorial St. Patrick’s Day Parade this Saturday, March 16. Organized by the Irish Society of North Alabama, this event, now in its 47th year, kicks off at 11 a.m. and will have a lineup of over 90 groups.
“We love seeing all of the people line the streets in green for this fun parade.” said Lisa Bollinger, Parade Director. “We are thrilled to honor Ellen McAnelly, the parade’s founder, with a celebration of the Irish, and those who are Irish for the day.”
The parade promises a diverse lineup. From specialty car groups to birthday celebrations, local companies, live music, dance troupes, floats, pirates, leprechauns, and kilts. The tradition continues with the blessing of the parade at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, followed by an official blessing of the Irish and American flags at the parade's front, presented by the Father Trecy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The Irish Society of North Alabama, in collaboration with the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, also announces Dr. Fiona Chambers as the 2024 Parade Grand Marshal.
To help people navigate the event, Parade Organizers have prepared a parade spectator guide with a route map and parking information, that can be found here. After the parade, there will be an official after party at Straight to Ale Brewing at Campus 805 featuring live music, games, and special food and drink offerings.
Rain or shine, the Irish Society of North Alabama says the parade will go on. Additionally, the Irish Society of North Alabama will also be at Paddy’s at the Pitch on St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17, at Joe Davis Stadium from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., in partnership with the Huntsville City Football Club.
