Jackson Businesses Boost Security for Hal's St. Paddy's Parade

New rules, route, and increased police presence aim to keep celebrations safe amid large crowds

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:41am

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As Jackson prepares for the return of the Hal's St. Paddy's Parade, local businesses are ramping up security measures to ensure a safe environment for the anticipated large crowds. Parade organizers and city officials are working closely with law enforcement to implement additional precautions, including metal detectors, more police officers on the route, and an after-party with heightened security.

Why it matters

The Hal's St. Paddy's Parade is one of Jackson's biggest annual events, drawing thousands of revelers to the downtown area. With concerns over public safety and crowd control, the increased security measures are aimed at preventing any incidents and allowing attendees to celebrate the holiday without disruption.

The details

At Martin's Downtown, a popular bar and restaurant along the parade route, owner Joseph Stodghill said his team is taking extra precautions this year. In addition to their usual security presence, they have installed metal detectors and will have seasoned police officers on hand. The city has also increased the number of officers patrolling the parade route to around 90. Parade founder Malcolm White supports the added security, stating that it's part of the event's evolution to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

  • The Hal's St. Paddy's Parade is scheduled to begin at noon on March 28, 2026.
  • After the parade wraps up, celebrations will continue with an after-party across the street from Martin's Downtown.

The players

Joseph Stodghill

The owner of Martin's Downtown, a popular bar and restaurant along the parade route.

Malcolm White

The founder of the Hal's St. Paddy's Parade.

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What they’re saying

“We always have security on this day. we don't take any chances with that.”

— Joseph Stodghill, Owner, Martin's Downtown

“We have metal detectors and things of that nature. We have seasoned officers who have been doing this for a long time. They're also be about 90 police officers on the route this year. With that being said, it's gonna be safer than it has ever been before.”

— Joseph Stodghill, Owner, Martin's Downtown

“We need to do business with law-enforcement and city officials want it done. I know some people don't like them and some dude but either way it's just a part of evolving.”

— Malcolm White, Parade Founder

What’s next

The parade will begin at noon on March 28, 2026, and the after-party across from Martin's Downtown will follow the conclusion of the parade.

The takeaway

The increased security measures, including metal detectors, more police officers, and an after-party with heightened precautions, demonstrate the event organizers' and city's commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable Hal's St. Paddy's Parade for the thousands of attendees expected to gather in downtown Jackson.