When it starts, where to eat

Every March, Binghamton gears up to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a little early.

A ceremonial green stripe has been painted along the parade route this week as the Hibernian Parade Committee of Broome County prepares for its 55th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday.

The origins of the event can be traced back to 1967 when a handful of Irish American men planned the first parade in the basement of the old St. John’s Catholic Church on Livingston Street. 

“Binghamton Parade Day is one of our community’s most beloved traditions, drawing thousands to downtown Binghamton to celebrate the start of the St. Patrick’s Day season and our area’s strong Irish roots,” said Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham in a press release.

Kraham also said the police will be enforcing open container laws at the parade.

If you’re heading out to the parade Saturday, here’s everything you need to know about the route, post-parade celebrations and where to find Parade Day meal specials nearby.

When, where does the parade start

The parade starts at 1:30 p.m. and will last approximately an hour and a half.

It begins at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, where Court and Fayette streets meet, then continues a one-mile route down Court Street, over the river to Main Street, and ends at the intersection with Arthur Street. 

The reviewing stand is in front of American Legion Post 80 on Main Street.

Who is participating in the St. Patrick’s Day parade

Binghamton’s 2023 St. Patrick’s Day parade grand marshal is Clairann “Cookie” Luke. The starter is Binghamton Police Department Inspector Gary Laskowsky. Monica Luke is this year’s Maid of Erin and NewsChannel 34’s Roy Santa Croce will emcee.

Five bagpipe bands are scheduled to march in the parade, including the Edward P. Maloney Memorial Pipe Band, the Broome County Celtic Pipes and Drums, and the Philadelphia Police and Fire Pipe Band as well as three Irish dance groups.

The CHOW Truck will travel the parade route prior to the start of…