7th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade in Riverdale draws large crowd
“It’s really grown over the years to be a source of joy and pride for the neighbors in the neighborhood,” said parade founder John P.L. Kelly.
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Riverdale community members marched up Fieldston Terrace on Saturday, surrounded by the sounds of bagpipes and motorcycle engines, for the 7th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“It’s really grown over the years to be a source of joy and pride for the neighbors in the neighborhood,” said parade founder John P.L. Kelly.
Kelly said the first parade, held at the start of the pandemic, drew only about 20 people. The celebration has since grown to include hundreds of neighbors, with shamrocks displayed on MTA buses and garbage trucks.
“This is done by people in the community, and I think they do an amazing job,” said Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz.
The parade stretched over two blocks, drawing spectators like the Gray family.
“Once you mention the word ‘Irish’ and ‘parade,’ there you go. We’ll be there,” said Richard Gray.
His wife, Anna, said she learned about the event on Instagram. “We always love to show our Irish pride, and we love Riverdale. So this is fantastic,” she said.
Kelly said he plans to continue the annual event and keep bringing the community together.
