The Jig Is Up

Cincinnati was a major destination for immigrants from Ireland in the mid-1840s, according to the publication “Cincinnati: City of Immigrants.” “The city offered opportunities for work on the riverfront, digging for the Miami and Erie Canal, and on railroad construction. By the end of the 19th century, immigrant families were proud to be Irish and were accepted by the majority of residents.”

The next (and following!) generation of Irish – and even the not-so-Irish – gather this Saturday, March 15, for the 57th annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade at The Banks, which begins at 12 p.m.

This year’s Honorary Grand Marshal is Anthony Muñoz, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and president of the Anthony Muñoz Foundation.

Since 1967, the parade has been bringing the community together with marching bands, Irish dancers, festive floats and plenty of shamrock spirit. In 2001, the parade was moved to Saturday before Saint Patrick’s Day. 

What begin as religious procession with the St. Patrick, Division #1, Ancient Order of Hibernians blossomed into a full parade, with floats, pipers, step dancers, Irish families, marching bands, and more.

The party continues after the parade, with LepreCon at The Banks.