As the chill of winter recedes, Monmouth and Ocean counties come alive with vibrant St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, signaling the joyous arrival of spring. Here’s a curated list of parades to help you immerse yourself in the festivities:
Sunday, March 2: Belmar/Lake Como
Celebrating its 52nd year, the Belmar/Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 12:30 p.m. The procession starts at 22nd Avenue and Main Street in Lake Como, then heads north through Belmar’s Main Street, culminating near the border of Avon-by-the-Sea. This parade is renowned as one of New Jersey’s largest, featuring a lively array of bagpipers, fire trucks, and festive floats.
Saturday, March 8: Seaside Heights
The Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade commences at 12:00 p.m. along the Boulevard in Seaside Heights. The route begins at J Street and proceeds north to Carteret Avenue. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Sunday, March 9: Asbury Park
Marking its 10th anniversary, the Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins at 1:00 p.m. The parade steps off near Convention Hall on Ocean Avenue and concludes at Main Street, close to Johnny Mac House of Spirits. This event showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the community, featuring local musicians, dancers, and creative floats.
Sunday, March 9: Rumson
The Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade starts at 12:00 p.m., beginning at Allen Street and River Road. This parade, now in its 11th year, is a family-friendly event that brings together the community to celebrate Irish heritage with marching bands, dancers, and festive floats.
Sunday, March 16: Freehold
The Freehold Borough Arts Council’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 12:30 p.m. The route runs down Main Street and concludes at the Freehold Elks Lodge. Leading up to the parade, the town hosts the “Flavor of Freehold” on March 12 and 13, and a Pub Crawl on March 14, offering a full week of festivities.
Saturday, March 22: Highlands
Celebrating its 20th year, the Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins at 2:00 p.m. The parade starts at Bay and Waterwitch Avenues, featuring a competition of floats with trophies awarded in categories like Best of Show and Most Original.
Saturday, March 29: Keansburg
The Keansburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., starting at Beachway Avenue and Main Street. This event brings the community together to celebrate with traditional Irish music, dancers, and festive floats.
Embrace the spirit of the season by attending these parades and enjoying the lively festivities that bring our communities together, celebrating the shared joy of the occasion.