Saint Patrick's Day Parade
Often regarded as the most popular parade in New York City, the St. Patrick's Day Parade is not to be missed. The first official St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City was held in 1766 by Irish military men serving in the American colonies. The parade goes up 5th Avenue from 44th to 79th Streets. Despite not allowing floats, autos or exhibits, there are over 150,000 marchers every year.
The New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade will take place on Saturday, March 17, 2012 starting at 11 a.m. on 5th Avenue around 44th Street. Toward the north end of the St. Patrick's Day Parade route are the best viewing spots: you can avoid the crowds that throng the sidewalks below 59th Street. The upper steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art provide a great view or you can get a close-up view of the marchers where the St. Patrick's Day Parade turns east on 86th Street. The St. Patrick's Day Parade ends at 86th Street, around 2 or 3 p.m.
