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Scranton Gears Up for Annual St. Patrick's Parade
Thousands expected to celebrate Irish heritage in downtown Scranton this Saturday
Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:04pm
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Downtown Scranton will welcome thousands of revelers on Saturday for the annual St. Patrick's Parade, a long-standing tradition in the city. The parade features marching bands, bagpipers, and other Irish-themed festivities, drawing crowds from across the region. Preparations are underway to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely, with road closures, increased security, and a focus on family-friendly activities.
Why it matters
The Scranton St. Patrick's Parade is a cherished community event that celebrates the city's Irish heritage and brings people together. It has become a tradition for many locals and visitors, showcasing Scranton's vibrant culture and serving as an economic boost for downtown businesses.
The details
The parade kicks off at 11:45 a.m. and is expected to last around 3.5 hours, following a route down Wyoming Avenue, Lackawanna Avenue, Jefferson Avenue, and North Washington Avenue. This year's parade features 145 entries, including nine bagpipe bands, seven high school bands, and a string band. The Lackawanna Historical Society is also participating with a contingent celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Scranton police will have a heightened presence to ensure the safety of parade-goers, with officers stationed throughout the route and utilizing technology to monitor the event.
- The parade starts at 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2026.
- A Parade Day Mass is held at 10 a.m. at St. Peter's Cathedral.
- The Brian P. Kelly Memorial St. Patrick's Parade 2-Mile Footrace starts at 11 a.m.
The players
Erin Keating
Scranton School District superintendent and the grand marshal of this year's parade.
John Ventura
The honorary grand marshal of the parade.
Michael Brown
The parade marshal.
Michael Kelly
The honorary parade marshal.
Tom Carroll
Scranton police chief, who said there will be additional 'boots on the ground' to keep parade-goers safe.
What they’re saying
“There will be additional 'boots on the ground,' to keep parade-goers safe as they enjoy the day.”
— Tom Carroll, Scranton police chief (thetimes-tribune.com)
“Alcohol-related crime has come down on parade day, with the event transitioned into a family friendly one.”
— Tom Carroll, Scranton police chief (thetimes-tribune.com)
What’s next
Scranton police will be out in force to ensure the safety of parade-goers, with officers stationed throughout the route and utilizing technology to monitor the event.
The takeaway
The Scranton St. Patrick's Parade is a cherished community tradition that celebrates the city's Irish heritage and brings people together. Despite the event's growth, the focus remains on creating a safe, family-friendly atmosphere for all to enjoy.
