The death of one of Ireland’s most popular super-heroes St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, comes to life this weekend all across the South Bay. March 17th is believed to be the day St. Patrick died and therefore represents the only day wearing green head to toe seems fashionable. What was once a religious holiday now mixes commercial zeal (green beer or green cupcakes) and Irish at heart pride together to celebrate the good things in life. One Emerald Isle tradition that’s been a joy to watch year after year takes place this Saturday, March 15th in Downtown Hermosa Beach.
17th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade (2011)
This is the fourth year in a row that the Annual Hermosa Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be put on by the Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce. The parade commences at 11:00 a.m. and is always packed full with a diverse array of participants aggregated from South Bay businesses, individuals, schools, and civic organizations. Girl Scout troops, DeLoreans (cars first built in N. Ireland), bagpipers, school bands, city officials, and a dancing Bud Light group usually choreographed with dolly carts and empty beer cases continuously make the Hermosa Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade an eclectically charming, community event.
William Green Elementary School’s Ballet Folklorico shows off some moves and gorgeous colors (2012).
The parade begins at the staging area near the tennis courts on Valley Drive (near 11th street), makes a left onto Pier Avenue, turns left on Hermosa Avenue and ends at Hermosa Avenue and 10th street. The parade draws an estimated 30,000 people each year who come to enjoy the event. Come out early to find parking and curbside views for this year’s parade!