WILKES-BARRE — A few brief bursts of snow did not discourage people from gathering in downtown Wilkes-Barre on Sunday for the city's 44th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, which proceeded smoothly despite some unpredictable weather.
The Wilkes-Barre City Police Department led the parade, together with The Gerard Dessoye Wilkes-Barre City Police Department Honor Guard, followed by grand marshal and Wilkes-Barre City Police Chief Joseph Coffay and honorary grand marshal Jennifer Gowan.
Coffay felt honored to be chosen as grand marshal due to his Irish heritage. His grandparents originated from Ireland, and his family history can be traced back to County Mayo, where he still has relatives.
“I attend this event every year, but this year is particularly special as I am the grand marshal,” Coffay stated. “Usually I am here in my professional capacity, but this year it is more of an honorary role.”
The parade included over 100 groups and 1,500 participants, such as emergency response units, local radio stations, nonprofit organizations, local leaders, youth groups, and pageant title holders.
Numerous pipe and drum bands and Irish dance groups provided entertainment along the parade route.
The inflatable balloons that were introduced in last year’s parade made a return on Sunday, although some of them struggled to stay upright in the gusty winds.
“We didn’t know what the weather was going to be like, so we said a couple of prayers and for most of the parade, the weather held out,” stated Mayor George Brown after the parade had concluded.
Despite sporadic sleet and snow, Brown mentioned that, ultimately, it was a “fantastic day.”
“The children all had a wonderful time, along with their families. This exemplifies what the city of Wilkes-Barre is all about: creating family memories,” he added.
Many parade attendees arrived nearly an hour before the start time, and by 2 p.m., the sidewalks along South Main Street and around the Public Square were filled with people wearing green.
Kim Ellard, 56, of Plymouth, was present at the parade with her grandson, Noel, 5, and his friend, Shane, 6.
“It’s just something to do on an otherwise dull day,” Ellard remarked. “And to get the kids out of the house. He’s always inside watching his tablet, you know what I mean?”
Everyone appeared well-prepared for the chilly weather, dressed in jackets, gloves, and blankets to stay warm.
Christine Molecavage, 45, of Edwardsville, a lifelong parade attendee, was eager to see the fire trucks and the NEPA Bird Gang float, as she is a Philadelphia Eagles fan.
Dressed in gloves, a hat, and a puffy coat, Molecavage shivered, but then took a large sip of her iced coffee.
“This weather won't deter me. I can handle any kind of weather,” she proudly declared.
Some parade attendees sought refuge from the cool March day inside Rodano’s and Franklin’s. The restaurant and bar were open to individuals aged 21 and over with a $10 cover charge.
Tara Fox, 50, of Wilkes-Barre, huddled with her daughter, Megan Gallagher, 20, near the bar’s space heater to stay warm.
“We have attended the parade every year since she was little,” Fox shared.
And the weather? Well, that didn’t seem to be a concern at all.
Fox said that they didn't really consider it. They just felt like they had to go because it was parade day.
