BUFFALO, N.Y. — One of the most celebrated events on the WNY calendar is set to return after an absence due to the pandemic.
The United Irish American Association announced the St. Patrick's Day Parade will take place at 2 p.m. down Delaware Avenue in Buffalo on Sunday, March 20.
Association and city officials say they are cautiously optimistic the parade will go on as scheduled. All participants and attendees are encouraged to follow the latest COVID protocols recommended by the CDC, NYS, Erie County and the city.
Patrick McGuinness will be this year's Grand Marshal. If interested in marching in the parade, you can fill out an application online.
McGuinness was originally selected as the grand marshal in 2020, but because of the COVID pandemic, he had to wait two years. He said he didn't mind.
"It's been like hanging on my shoulder for a while now, and a lot of people have asked, 'Are you still the grand marshal?' And I say, 'Yes,' so it's been a lot of fun," McGuinness said.
"It's one of the first big events for the city, and that's what we're looking forward to, and we're sure everybody else is too."
The day will start with Mass celebrated at St. Joseph's Cathedral at 10:30 a.m.
Then the parade at 2 p.m. will start in Niagara Square and head up Delaware Avenue to North Street. The organizers say they are monitoring COVID protocols to ensure safety for participants and spectators.
More information about the parade can be found here or by calling Brigid Knott at (716) 875-0282.