Thousands of people filled the streets for the Downtown Irish Club Parade.
It’s a staple celebration of the Irish heritage in New Orleans that’s been rolling through Marigny for 50 years.
“I’m glad to see them and that they still carry on,” said Katrina Nash.
Nash says her dad was a founding member of the Downtown Irish Club Parade.
It started back in 1976 in an effort to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day. Decades later, it continues to grow.
“It’s very important, I was proud of him for getting into a club like this. I wasn’t expected it, but he did,” said Nash.
She wore her dad’s original club medallion while she watched the parade, paying tribute to her Irish roots.
“It means the world to me,” said Nash.
Other parage goers share the same sentiment.
“I grew up, up north, and I have an Irish mother, and she always cooked certain foods on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s been a tradition to participate in parades since I was a little kid,” said Dan Scagliarini.
People packed the streets, feeling lucky, grabbing special throws, and seeing festive floats decked out in green.
While good luck clovers and joy covered the area, the celebration also meant upholding the spirit and legacy of St. Patrick.
“Me personally, I’m a third Irish, there’s a lot of guys that are a lot more Irish than me, but we all get out here and have a great time,” said Richie Parker.
READ MORE:Downtown Irish Club Parade rolls on St. Patrick’s Day
