St. Patrick’s Day Parade Celebrates Half-Century Legacy in Seaside Heights

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — The town is celebrating a significant milestone this weekend as it hosts one of New Jersey’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades. The event, which has grown immensely since its inception, brought together 87 organizations to march, including 11 bagpipe bands.

Starting at noon on Saturday, participants lined up along the Boulevard before parading from J Street to Carteret Avenue. Parade committee president Tom King described the turnout as “very good” and noted that attendees were enthusiastic about the event’s festive atmosphere.

“People loved it,” King said in a phone interview after the parade. He has been a longstanding participant, never missing a parade since the first one held indoors at the Ocean County Mall in Toms River nearly 50 years ago.

The parade began in 1973, where it was initially an indoor event at the mall before expanding outdoors the following year. It permanently relocated to Seaside Heights in the mid-1970s, where it remains a staple on the community calendar.

King, who serves as the drum major for one of the bands participating, expressed excitement for the event. “I’ll be the first one down the street,” he said ahead of Saturday’s festivities.

This year’s parade is part of a broader celebration, as eight St. Patrick’s Day parades are taking place across New Jersey this weekend, with five having occurred the previous weekend. St. Patrick’s Day itself falls on Monday, March 17.

In addition to the parades, the cultural significance of the day is evident in the many Irish pubs across the state, with establishments like The Irish Pub in Atlantic City proving particularly iconic for their unique décor and rich history.

Cathy Burke, co-owner of The Irish Pub, highlighted its distinctive atmosphere, noting that many visitors are surprised to find such a place amid the city’s well-known casinos and hotels. “People don’t expect to see this,” she remarked.

The pub features a collection of historical memorabilia, including vintage photos and even documents dating back to Prohibition. Those who have frequented the bar include famed baseball player Joe DiMaggio and comedian George Carlin, both of whom contributed to the pub’s storied legacy.

As the state recognizes its Irish heritage this weekend, community spirit remains strong, showcased by parades and local taverns celebrating the birth of a new St. Patrick’s Day tradition in Seaside Heights.