By Dee Longfellow
FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
If you’re looking through this section and find your children looking up to two years younger than they are now, you’ll have to bear in mind that the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade had to take a two-year hiatus, thanks to COVID-19. In fact, the parade in 2020 was one of the last big events the community took part in before COVID shut everything down.
But now, it’s time once again for the wearin’ o’ the green on Saturday, March 5, when the City and especially Spring Road celebrates the 25th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Starting from Spring Road and Wilson, the parade steps off promptly at 12 noon.
This year’s Grand Marshal is the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra, a regular entry for the past several years. More information on the EAO can be found inside this section.
The list of entries can be viewed inside as well and you will find photos of your family, friends and neighbors, some from 2018 and 2019.
As usual, the parade will march northward toward the railroad tracks just beyond Silverado Grill. But you’ll likely want to show up earlier than that not only to park but also to take advantage of the musical entertainment that will be going on prior to the parade. Music is expected to be performed at the Prairie Path, in front of Ahlgrim Funeral Home and at McKinley and Spring.
Then enjoy a few hours of bands, City fire and public works vehicles, City officials, people seeking office in the the Primary election, Scout troops, floats, representatives from various business and organizations in town and those fabulous Irish dancers.
After the parade, stick around Spring Road to visit the merchants, restaurants and other establishments, many of whom will offer live musical performances for you to enjoy along with green beer (in moderation!) and corned beef sandwiches.
The Elmhurst Independent will be there too, so smile as we drive by because we might just take your picture. Hosted by Elmhurst’s own John R. Quigley and Ken Bartels, Comcast “Elmhurst Our Kind of Town” will be filming the parade for viewing later in the month. After March 17, it will broadcast on Comcast Channel 6 and AT&T Universe Channel 99. It can also be found at ElmhurstTV.com. We’ll keep you advised of the exact dates and times in an upcoming issue.
Enjoy the day and don’t forget to wear your green!
