Utica St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Utica St. Patrick’s Day Parade Over 200 years later, from the time John C. Devereux was Grand Marshal, the tradition lives on. The City of Utica’s St. The annual St. Patrick.

Over 5,000 marchers from across the state step off from Oneida Square and head north on Genesee Street to greet spectators with their music and smiling faces. Info is from the 'City of Utica' website, with minor edits for accuracy. Patrick’s Day Parade was started over 30 years ago [approximately 1985] by Johnnie Oakes and a small group of Irishmen who walked down Varick Street. At that time, the

parade consisted of one band and a few vehicles. The parade was later led by a group of gentlemen that assembled at Roger’s Coffee Shop known to many as The Rainbow Sportsmen Club. As the parade grew over the years, the Adelphia Cable Cares Club was asked to present the parade. In 2008 the Great American Irish Festival, an all-volunteer organization whose primary mission is to promote Irish culture and music, was asked to assume the responsibility of parade presenter. From Wikipedia:
Due to its expanding size and the desire for a more family-friendly setting, the parade was moved from Varick Street to its current location on Genesee Street in 1992. The parade route steps off at Oneida Square and travels north on Genesee Street ending at Columbia Street. Many spectators find the reviewing stand area in front of the Stanley Theatre a prime location to enjoy the parade, but the fact is there is not a bad viewing spot along the route. The parade is considered one of the largest in New York State. Thousands of local families enjoy the annual parade, which includes marchers from Canada, Pennsylvania and others throughout New York State, as well as our local favorites. Patrick’s Day Parade carries on a grand tradition of Irish pride and family fun. The event caps off a traditional full week of Irish-themed and parade-related activities, including the Grand Marshal’s Reception (customary “Passing of the Shillelagh”), the raising of the Irish flag at City Hall and ceremonial painting of the “green line” down Genesee St., as well as a mass celebrating Ireland’s patron saint, St. In most recent years, a “Mad Mile” race has been added as a festive kick-off to the Parade’s start. Families and friends, wearing their best Irish outfits, assemble to dash down the Genesee Street parade route just ahead of the Utica St. Patrick’s Day Parade. With a built-in cheering crowd, this one-mile course with a slight elevation drop helps rev up both crowds and participants to enjoy the day’s festivities. The spirit of giving is also present during the parade, as food items and monetary donations are collected as part of the parade’s annual food drive to support local Mother Marianne’s West Side Kitchen.

We had such a fantastic time at last night’s Mayor’s Gala! Proud we could be a sponsor for such a tremendous cause in su...
05/31/2026

We had such a fantastic time at last night’s Mayor’s Gala! Proud we could be a sponsor for such a tremendous cause in supporting The Abraham House.

A debt of honor paid forward forever.Remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms this Memorial Da...
05/24/2026

A debt of honor paid forward forever.

Remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms this Memorial Day weekend.

We were saddened to hear of Thalea's passing. She was an integral part of our parade operations with securing all the ne...
05/15/2026

We were saddened to hear of Thalea's passing. She was an integral part of our parade operations with securing all the necessary paperwork for the City. She was always so helpful and a pleasure to work with. We will truly miss her kindness.

Today, the City of Utica flag will be flown at half-staff in honor and memory of Thalea Hunter.

Thalea dedicated more than 20 years of service to the City of Utica, leaving a lasting impact on our community and all those who had the privilege of working alongside her. Her commitment, kindness, and years of service will not be forgotten.

The City of Utica extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Thalea. You will be deeply missed.

We had such a fun time at the Arc Oneida-Lewis’ Blue Jean Ball! We were happy to be a sponsor and support what this agen...
05/13/2026

We had such a fun time at the Arc Oneida-Lewis’ Blue Jean Ball! We were happy to be a sponsor and support what this agency means to so many people and families in our community.

Celebrating all the incredible moms, today and always ~ Happy Mother's Day! 💐
05/10/2026

Celebrating all the incredible moms, today and always ~ Happy Mother's Day! 💐

Our Co-Directors were present for County Executive Anthony Picente’s State of the County address. The state of the coun...
05/08/2026

Our Co-Directors were present for County Executive Anthony Picente’s State of the County address.

The state of the county is strong!

Congratulations on 46 years, Father Joe!
05/04/2026

Congratulations on 46 years, Father Joe!

Happy 46th anniversary of your ordination to the priesthood, Fr. Joe!! God bless you always!

It's a big year to celebrate - be sure to come out and support these wonderful events! 🎉 🇺🇸 ⭐️
04/24/2026

It's a big year to celebrate - be sure to come out and support these wonderful events! 🎉 🇺🇸 ⭐️

Join us this year for our Annual Memorial Day Parade and Fourth of July Parade!

We welcome community members, organizations, and participants to be part of these special events as we honor and celebrate together.

For more information or to sign up to participate, please contact Lucy at 1-(315)-765-0975.

Excited to be a part of this upcoming event ~ sure to be a great time!
04/23/2026

Excited to be a part of this upcoming event ~ sure to be a great time!

👖We're thrilled to bring you the second annual Blue Jean Ball on Friday, May 8th!

🙌 It simply wouldn't be possible without the support of the many generous sponsors, including these great businesses, organizations, and people.

💛 From the bottom of our hearts, thank you all, and we hope everyone will join us for a night to remember.

🎟️ Get your tix here: https://bit.ly/BJBTix2026

We are saddened to learn about the passing of Fran Ziobro, who started our parades annually with his cannon -- a traditi...
04/22/2026

We are saddened to learn about the passing of Fran Ziobro, who started our parades annually with his cannon -- a tradition that has contributed to the excitement of parade morning. The cannon step-off ritual will continue with Fran's son taking over going forward.

Thank you for being a part of us, Fran.

View Francis S. Ziobro, Jr.'s obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

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2222 Genesee Street
Utica, NY
13502

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