The atmosphere was great, the weather cooperated and everyone was Irish!

 

Thousands of people lined Morris Avenue in Union on Saturday to flaunt their Irish pride, braving the cold, windy weather to watch participants in the 16th annual Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.   The parade began promptly at 1 pm, where schools, pipe and drum groups, state troopers and marching bands followed the parade route to the sounds of cheering spectators.

The Jersey Prize Team followed the parade route, where they handed out prizes to enthusiastic listeners! From the crowd we heard shouts of  "I love your station!" and "Where are all the personalities?!" Everyone was excited to see the Big Yellow Van from their favorite radio station, New Jersey 101.5!

The spectators of the parade honored Grand Marshal Bill Dugan Elizabeth Police Lieutenant, a Union County native who celebrated the parade day festivities with his family.

Some of the parade participants included the Union High School marching band and twirling team, NJ State Troopers in honor of their fallen comrade Thomas J. Hanratty, Cranford PBA Local #52, The Bergen County Firefighters Pipe Band, Elizabeth Fire Department, the Union County Education Association, the Make a Wish Foundation® of New Jersey and many more.

Everyone was decked out for the parade, showing their Irish spirit by wearing green; one participant dyed his beard green, while several others had their dogs in green costumes and Irish garb.

This year’s parade was dedicated to victims and survivors of cancer and their families. The great sense of community and welcoming atmosphere at the parade was a great way to show support of those whose lives have been touched by cancer.

 

Check below for pictures and videos of this years parade!

 

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