How to Lead a St Patrick's Day Parade

A St. Patrick's Day parade is serious business. Maybe not for the crowd but a lot of work goes on behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. The grand marshal has the prestigious job of going first down the parade route and getting the crowd excited about what's to come. Here's how to do just that.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Wear green—everywhere. If you're going to be leading the St. Patrick's Day Parade you have to be decked out in green so go nuts. Green hat, green coat, green pants, green socks, green shoes are all options. Painting your face is even an option. The point here is to be over the top so the parade viewers see you coming.
2. Know the parade route. You're at the head of the parade and leading everyone down the streets so it's essential you know where you're going. Check the map beforehand and have a good idea of what turns to take and when to take them.
3. Decide on a mode of transportation. Walk or ride proudly at the front of the parade. Or do something completely different that's more your style. Ride a horse, a bike or even a unicycle. Just find something that you're comfortable with.
4. Get people excited about the parade. Everyone loves a parade so this won't be too hard. Be cheery and excited and let that excitement rub off on the crowd. Get them in the right frame of mind for the fun that follows.

Tips & Warnings

• While you do need to be familiar with the parade route, don't worry too much about having it memorized. The streets will be blocked off and there will be enough parade-goers for you to see exactly what streets to follow.
• Wait until after the parade to start your own St. Patrick's Day celebration. Don't wander around the streets drunk—you'll just embarrass yourself and make a lot of people angry. It's an honor to be asked to lead a parade and you should treat your job as such.