Philadelphia celebrates St. Patrick's Day with parade

Philadelphia (WPVI) – Hundreds of people took part in St. Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday before a holiday celebrates the celebration of Irish culture.

It is a day full of live music, swimmers and traditional Irish jigs and one of the oldest parades in the country.

“It is older than the country. It started in 1771,” said Parade Marshal Jim McGinley.

For more than 250 years it has been an opportunity for thousands of people in Philadelphia to come together and paint the city green.

“Everyone is Irish on the day of St. Patrick. It is fun. It's something that people can do and it is something that they can relax and have fun,” said McGinley

This year's parade brought crowds to the art museum, which was a change for 2025. However, what remained the same was the purpose of the parade to recognize the Irish heritage.

“My grandparents came here from Ireland, so it's a kind of homage to my grandparents,” said Mike McCrea from Ridley.

“You need a community these days. You have to be together, you have to celebrate good and joyful things, celebrate your inheritance and celebrate Philadelphia,” said Jeannie Connor from the northeast of Philadelphia.

Some of the city unions were also evident with a swimmer.

“What makes it so special is that everyone comes together and enjoys the vacation,” said Brian Eelis of Ironworkers Local 401.

Parade Goers Young and Alt wore their best for the celebration.

“My favorite part is the earrings. The earrings are a rainbow with a lot of gold. I'm really happy to see them. This is my first time in the news,” said seven -year -old Fiona Bernard.