Irish-Italian Annual Parade

St. Patrick’s Day is not the only parade in New Orleans in March! New Orleans always finds a reason to celebrate! Another big parade held in the city is the Irish-Italian parade! It always takes place the Sunday after St. Patrick's Day-- it starts at noon in the suburb of Metairie, and parades down Veterans Highway, with the traditional detour up and down Severn Avenue, one of our streets with a neutral ground!

This parade originated many years ago when Italian Henry Hoff and Irishman Eddie Renton, Sr. decided it was time to have their own parade. Their motto was "It’s about time we get together!" It didn’t take long to interest others in the idea, and the "Irish-Italian Parade" was born! The original 10 board members have been in charge of organizing the event ever since their first parade of 1984.

What is unique about this parade is that it has "two" Grand Marshals--one Italian and one Irish! This year the Irish Grand Marshal is Ed McIntyre and the Italian, Patrick Bossetta. Previous grand marshals have included politicians, judges, and businessmen of New Orleans.

Even though it seems as if a parade is a one-time event, those involved enjoy several events leading up to the parade....A luncheon is held at the Hilton in January to introduce new grand marshal to all of the past grand marshals of the parade. In addition, a week before the parade rolls, a supper dance is enjoyed by all....followed by a "toasting party" (now held at Legend's) on the Tuesday before the parade!

We will be sharing pictures of this parade with you -- you gotta love a parade!

So...enjoy the site, give us a bookmark, and y'all come back now!