Bay City's St. Patrick's Day Parade Marches On Despite Snow

Annual event features over 130 floats and a third-generation grand marshal.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:04pm

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Despite concerns about snowfall and high winds, the 71st annual Bay City St. Patrick's Day parade went on as scheduled on Sunday, March 15. The parade featured more than 130 floats and participants, continuing a tradition that first began in 1955. Rachelle Ovalle led the parade as grand marshal, continuing a family legacy that spans three generations.

Why it matters

The Bay City St. Patrick's Day parade is a long-standing community tradition that brings residents together each year to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. The parade's ability to march on despite inclement weather underscores the resilience and dedication of the organizers and participants.

The details

The parade stepped off at 2 p.m. Sunday from its usual starting point at the corner of Park and Center avenues. The route proceeded down Center Avenue, with hundreds of onlookers lining the streets to enjoy the dazzling displays. Many houses along Center Avenue hosted parade parties, with participants standing outside to take in the show.

  • The 71st annual Bay City St. Patrick's Day parade took place on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • The parade tradition first began on March 17, 1955.

The players

Rachelle Ovalle

The grand marshal of the 2026 Bay City St. Patrick's Day parade, continuing a family tradition that began with her great-grandfather and grandmother.

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The takeaway

The Bay City St. Patrick's Day parade's ability to march on despite inclement weather underscores the resilience and dedication of the organizers and participants, who are committed to preserving this long-standing community tradition.