Seattle residents will gather to march this week for St. Patrick’s Day. This event is organized by the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle, and features music, marching, and special guests, and is the 48th annual parade.
The parade will start at 4th Avenue and James Street, and ends at Westlake Park, which is on 4th and Pine. Organized groups must pre-register for the parade; individuals do not have to register. The ceremony begins at 12.20 pm, when the flag of the Irish will be raised in front of the King County Administration building. The parade will start at 12:30, when this year’s Grand Marshals and Honorary Grand Marshal lead the way. Trumpet players will play both the Irish and United States National Anthems.
The Grand Marshal this year is Joe McDermott, a King County Councilmember. The Honorary Grand Marshal chosen this year is Nicole Russeff, who has been participating in this parade for the past thirteen years. There will also be at least two special guests visiting from Ireland.
At the end of the parade route there will be a chance for participants to travel at no charge to the Seattle Center via the Monorail, where the closing ceremonies will be conducted at approximately 2:30 pm. Events of this size tend to take advantage of banner printing, not only for advertising but also for the parade itself. The parade is currently scheduled for Saturday, March 16.