How to March in the New York City Saint Patrick's Day Parade

New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is often noted as the most grand and most popular of all New York parades (and we have a lot of them). Whether you’re 100 percent Irish or have no Irish background at all, you and yours are welcome to march in the 42-block trek. There are plenty of groups to march with, whether it be with your county of origin or just a group who likes to celebrate the day. Below you’ll find ways to secure your spot in the sea of green that is the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Green everything; clothes, hair, wigs (for the more reserved folks), jewelry, scarves, shoes--the more green the better.
• A comfortable pair of “marching” shoes.
• Warm clothes.

1. Research your Irish heritage and be proud of your county! The most authentic way to be involved in the parade is to march with your county, if you have an Irish bloodline, that is. Although this is quite an undertaking, by doing research you may be able to trace your Irish heritage to a specific county in Ireland. In fact, many Americans can trace relations to multiple Irish counties. As a little background; there are currently 32 counties in the country of Ireland, somewhat comparable to the 50 states in the USA. Each county is represented during the parade by a group of marchers who are either from the county originally or can trace their roots there. So break out Great-Grandma’s old photo albums and ask her for a family history lesson. If that is not an option, theres always the Internet! Once you know which county your family once called home, feel free to march behind that county’s banner on parade day.

2. Join an Irish group or society. Hop on the Internet again and do a local search for Irish groups or societies. Many of these societies meet regularly for fun Irish events, including the St. Patty’s Day Parade. Find out what the membership fee is (if there is one) and you should be good to go! This is a fun way to get involved if you are unsure of which county to march with.

3. Call your alma mater. Many colleges and universities have Gaelic groups on campus. Many of these Gaelic groups get together and march in the parade, and all are welcome to join. Your alma mater will give you more information on where and what time to meet at the start of the parade, what to bring/wear, and more details.

Tips & Warnings

• You may hear “Up Tipperary!” or “Up Cork!” a joyful Irish expression of pride in one’s county. All depending on which county you’re marching with, you’re sure to here the word “Up” followed by your county name. Many people on the sidelines watching are sure to yell this at you as you march by. The appropriate response it to smile and offer the expression back to them.
• Bring warm clothing. It is a long walk and you’ll want to be prepared for the chilly March weather. Remember, snow is still a possibility during the month of March in New York City!
• The judges are watching! The Official Reviewing Stand is located at 64th Street and 5th Avenue. The Catholic Archbishop of New York also judges the parade from the steps of the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, on 51st Street and Madison Avenue. Make sure and march accordingly when you reach these two key spots. Be mindful of how your group is marching. Is it a serious group, marching in distinct rows and lines? Or is it a more rowdy group, out to show the judges some good Irish craic (that means "fun" in the old Irish language of Gaelic). Be respectful of the group’s practices, as this is a competitive parade, after all. The higher your score this year, the closer your group will be placed to the front of the parade the following year; which means more television coverage.
• Don’t forget your comfortable shoes.

[serf]

on 12/6/2007 ...a great article.....BUT, if you think I'm gonna shout "Up Anything" while surrounded by Irishmen, think again!!! ErinGoBragh