The 37th annual Lawrence St. Patrick’s Day Parade drew a crowd of thousands today along its route, from 11th & Massachusetts St. to north of the river across Locust St., in a sea of green.
The parade traces its roots back to 1988, when a group of friends - who all shared an Irish heritage - sat in a Lawrence bar and planned the details for what would become one of Lawrence’s long-standing traditions. Since then, the volunteer-led committee has become a philanthropy powerhouse that’s raised more than $1.2 million in donations for children’s charities around Douglas County.
This year, profits from the St. Patrick’s Day Parade benefit BabyJay’s Legacy of Hope, which supports families during their child's battle with pediatric cancer; Lawrence Community Nursery School, one of the oldest cooperative preschools in the US; Positive Bright Start, which offers child care, therapy, financial aid, and food supports for local families; River City Rock Camp, an immersive music education program where kids learn to be part of a band; and Unchained Bicycle Co-op, a non-profit bike shop that promotes cycling safety education for both kids and adults.
While the St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee hosts more than 10 events every year, the parade is by far its biggest. And this year’s parade didn’t disappoint. Attendees braved the cold wind and stayed stylish with shamrock necklaces, leprechaun hats, and more. And some families showcased their tailgating skills by filling their car trunks with decor and treats, ranging from Irish soda bread to creamy mint-green Oreos. Watch this episode to see some of the best outfits, tailgating set-ups, and floats from the parade.