Detroit’s St. Patrick’s Day History & Parade Info
St. Patrick’s Day is an annual holiday that celebrates the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. It is widely observed throughout the world, including in Detroit. Detroit has a rich history when it comes to St. Patrick’s Day, dating back to the mid-19th century.
One of the earliest celebrations of St. Patrick’s Day in Detroit was in 1839 when the city’s Irish residents gathered at St. Mary’s Church to celebrate. The festivities included a parade, music, dancing, and traditional Irish food and drink. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that St. Patrick’s Day became a widely celebrated holiday in Detroit.
In 1909, the first official St. Patrick’s Day Parade took place in Detroit. The parade was organized by the United Irish Societies of Detroit and featured marching bands, floats, and thousands of participants. The tradition continued over the years and grew into one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the country.
Throughout the 20th century, Detroit’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations only continued to grow in popularity. In the 1950s, Detroit’s Mayor Albert Cobo even dyed the Detroit River green to honor the holiday. The tradition continues today, with thousands of people coming from all over the state to attend the annual parade and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This years parade is Sunday, March 12th. The parade begins at 1 p.m. near Sixth Street and Michigan Avenue going west to 14th Street in Corktown.
In addition to the parade, there are many other events that take place in Detroit to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Many local bars and restaurants offer Irish-themed menus and specials, while others host live music and entertainment. The annual Corktown Race, which takes place on race day morning, has become a popular event for runners and families alike.
St. Patrick’s Day has a long and rich history in Detroit. From its early beginnings as a small celebration at St. Mary’s Church to the large-scale parades and festivities of today, the holiday has grown to become an important part of Detroit’s culture and heritage.
