Sunday, March 16, 2025, will be a great day for the Irish (and everyone else) when the Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County presents the 43rd annual Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Don’t miss this annual opportunity to cheer on the long line of pipe bands, traditional Irish dance groups, Irish-owned businesses, community organizations, local police & fire departments, and, of course, politicians as they stride jauntily down Washington Avenue, basking in the celebratory cheers and good feelings coming from festive bystanders all along the parade route.
Everyone is Irish on Parade Day!
The Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the region’s most popular celebrations of Irish heritage. For many Bergen County Irish, this tribute to Ireland’s patron saint is an event they look forward to all year long. Of course, everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, and this carries over to Parade Day, too!
Celebrating Irish Heritage: The Evolution of St. Patrick’s Day Parades in America
St. Patrick’s Day, marked on March 17th each year, is a time when the world turns various shades of green to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. This day, commemorating the life of St. Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, has transcended its religious origins to become a global festivity. However, it’s the United States where the tradition of St. Patrick’s Day parades has flourished, transforming into grand displays of community and heritage. As we gear up for the 2025 Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Bergenfield, mybergen.com thought it might be fitting to explore the rich history of these parades in the U.S. and understand why they remain a popular fixture in our cultural celebrations.
The First Parades
Interestingly, the very first St. Patrick’s Day parade didn’t take place in Ireland but in the United States. Historical records point to an early celebration in 1601 in what is now St. Augustine, Florida. Yet, it was in 1762, in New York City, that Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched in honor of St. Patrick, laying the groundwork for the parade tradition. This act of unity and celebration among the Irish diaspora set a precedent for future gatherings.
Expansion and Cultural Significance
As the 19th century saw a surge in Irish immigration to the U.S., primarily due to the Great Famine, St. Patrick’s Day parades became a vital expression of Irish pride and unity. Cities with substantial Irish populations began hosting their parades, each infusing the event with local flair and traditions, thereby cementing the parade’s place in American culture.
Modern-Day Festivities: More Than Just Parades
Today, St. Patrick’s Day parades across the U.S. have evolved into multifaceted celebrations of Irish culture. They are vibrant affairs that showcase Irish music, dance, and folklore, inviting people of all backgrounds to partake in the festivities. In fact, two of the largest parades in the Unites States are held close by in Manhattan and in Pearl River, New York. These and many other parades have become a testament to the rich Irish influence on American society and a celebration of diversity and inclusion.
The Heart of the Community
Beyond the spectacle, St. Patrick’s Day parades like the one in Bergenfield, serve as crucial community events. They draw families and friends together in a festive atmosphere, promoting local businesses and fostering a sense of communal pride, family roots and togetherness.
Bergen County’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Local Highlight
In Bergen County, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Bergenfield stands out as a key cultural event. It draws participants and spectators from across the region, showcasing the area’s vibrant Irish community and heritage. The parade is a colorful, joyous occasion that unites the community in celebration.
The 2025 Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade: What to Expect
The anticipation for the 2025 Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade is already building. This event promises to be a fun-filled celebration of Irish culture, community spirit, and the welcoming of spring. It’s an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to gather in Bergenfield to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Irish traditions.
Event Updates
The 2025 Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held on Sunday, March 16th, kicking off at 2:00 pm on Washington Avenue in Bergenfield, New Jersey.
Washington Avenue in Bergenfield is a short drive from Routes 4, 9W, and the Palisades Interstate Parkway.
Visit the Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County on Facebook for more information and updates on the 2025 Bergen County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Mybergen.com will share Facebook updates if there are any changes in the 2025 Bergen County Parade schedule due to inclement weather conditions.
The tradition of St. Patrick’s Day parades in America highlights the enduring appeal of cultural festivities that bring communities together. These parades have grown from modest beginnings into significant events that not only pay homage to Irish heritage but also celebrate the diverse mosaic of American society. As we look forward to the 2025 parade in Bergen County, let’s embrace this opportunity to unite in joy, culture, and community spirit.
You’ll find a comprehensive listing of other Bergen County parades, community festivals and other local events updated daily on the mybergen.com Events Calendar.
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