By: April Hernandez
BAY CITY – Center Street was lined with shades of green on Sunday afternoon in Bay City. It has been a St. Patrick’s Day tradition that the city has embraced for a whopping 69 years. Even the frigid air could not stop the turnout, proving that this tradition isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
It seemed as if the whole town came out to celebrate their Irish pride. Vendors lined the street, offering everything from popcorn and pretzels to cotton candy and coffee. Food trucks added to the mix, tempting parade goers with Hog Fries, Tex-Mex and Korean tacos.
But the real excitement was the parade lineup. Bay City emergency personnel and the 2024 parade marshal, Mechelle Moran Hill led the brigade. Bagpipes played in the distance until attendees got a front row seat to this Irish tradition. Marching bands followed soon after, keeping the rhythm alive and the vibe upbeat. Floats decked out in four leaf clovers carried veterans, pageant princesses and queens. And of course, leprechauns, the mischievous mascots of the day, topped off the festivities.
Children watched on with excitement, many sporting tiny green hats with Irish flags in their hands. Parents encouraged them to join the fun, chasing candy thrown from the floats. One crowd-pleaser was the Grease float with singers walking behind, playing tunes from the movie and creating a sing-along among some of the attendees.
The parade lasted 90 minutes and every moment was filled with smiles, family fun and the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. As the fun came to an end, it was clear that this celebration was more than just a tradition. It was a symbol of community, unity and a whole lot of fun.
