The Parade Marches On!

We are proud and excited to confirm that the parade will proceed as planned this Sunday. Significant investments of time, resources, and heart have gone into making this day a success, and we are deeply grateful to the Borough of Rutherford for working alongside us to ensure we can march on. With that in mind, we ask for everyone’s cooperation to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all.

Spectator Safety

Please be mindful that navigating town and parking will be more challenging than usual due to snow accumulation. We highly encourage spectators to leave their cars at home and to walk to the parade route. If you plan on traveling to view the parade, please take mass transportation. If driving is an absolute must, please carpool and abide by the following rules:

• Do not park in any way that could impede traffic or emergency access.
• Follow all police instructions.
• Carpooling and mass transit are strongly encouraged.
• Plan extra time for your travels.
• Shuttle buses will be available to bring parade participants from Felician University and the Park & Ride on West Erie Avenue to the parade start beginning at 11:00am.
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All spectators must remain on the sidewalk at all times and not encroach onto the street. We understand that this may mean standing behind snow piles along the curb, but the parade route must remain completely clear for marchers and emergency personnel.

Parade Conduct

For the safety and enjoyment of all:

• Marchers are not permitted to carry beverages during the parade. Volunteers with garbage bags will be available at the start.
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages along the parade route is strictly prohibited.
• Marchers may not throw any items into the crowd.

Marcher Check-In

All marching groups must check in no later than 12:00 PM at College Place & Marginal Road.

All RIAA members and past dignitaries are invited to march with the Board. Please arrive at 12:15 PM to muster in Contingent 1 on Park Avenue between Marginal and Gouverneur.

Parade Kickoff

The parade will start at 1:00pm with the singing of the national anthem of Ireland by our 2026 Grand Marshal, Carol Gilhawley, and the United States national anthem performed by members of the Rutherford High School Choir. This year, it will occur at the beginning of the parade route on Park Ave between Woodland and E Van Ness.

Thank you for your flexibility, your cooperation, and your continued support of the Rutherford Irish American Association.

May the luck of the Irish be with us! See you on Sunday!