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BOSTON – The Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration is one of the biggest and most spirited in the country, drawing thousands of visitors each year, as Boston is home to one of the biggest Irish populations in the country.
This year’s parade, held Sunday, March 16 in South Boston – known as “Southie” to locals – honors both St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day, the latter marking the 1776 departure of British troops from Boston during the Revolutionary War.
The streets were packed with people ranging of many ages all in green clothing, hats, necklaces and waving Irish flags.
The parade saw a wide range of organizations participate as well as traditional marching bands and Irish step dancers. Many local groups, cultural organizations, and even military units took part as well.
The Irish American Pipe and Drum Bands were a prominent feature of the parade, continuing their long tradition of participating in the event. Composed of local Irish-American musicians, the bands performed with bagpipes and drums, playing tunes that honored Irish heritage.
With all the excitement came the usual chaos. Since many of the spectators are college students, the police were out in full force to keep things under control, especially in the crowded spots where drinking was intense.
There was also a group dressed as redcoats, representing British soldiers from 1776, marching through the streets and carrying a flag of the United Kingdom. As they walked, strong reactions came from the crowd and many people booed.
The parade drew prominent political figures like Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Massachusetts state Sen. Nick Collins, who were joined by their families.
Shiara Naveen is a Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
