St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Ireland’s patron saint, who lived during the fifth century and who is known for bringing Christianity to the nation. The day is celebrated annually on March 17, the anniversary of St. Patrick’s death.
The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held on March 17, 1601, in what is now St. Augustine, Florida. More than a century later, homesick Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched into New York City on March 17, 1772, to honour the Irish patron saint.
Canada’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in Montreal in 1824. Ever since, parades and festivals of Irish culture have been held annually in cities across Canada. The Toronto St. Patrick’s Day parade is one of the largest events in the city’s calendar, with over 3,000 people participating in the event each year and over 100,000 people watching on the streets. The Toronto St Patrick’s parade is also one of the most diverse in the world, representing the cultural diversity of the city and with communities of all backgrounds and ages taking part.
IUOE Local 793 has had the great privilege to march in the St. Patrick’s Day parade for three years. In 2019, Business Manager Mike Gallagher was nominated as Grand Marshall of the parade. This year, Local 793 will once again take to the streets of Toronto in celebration of this well-loved tradition. Members and their families are invited to bring the Irish Spirit and show support for the Union at the same time.
CLICK HERE for parade information and details on Local 793’s meeting location ahead of the march.