Thousands of spectators attended the traditional St. Patrick’s Day parade in Montreal on Sunday afternoon.
Celebrating the Irish holiday, dozens of floats paraded through the city center over a distance of just over two kilometers. Marching bands, mascots and giant puppets also took part in the procession.
On both sides of the parade, spectators wearing green hats celebrated to the rhythm of bagpipes.
“I love being able to spend time with the Irish community,” says Briana McLearie, dressed head to toe in green. Her great-grandfather having emigrated from Ireland, the young woman is a regular at the parade.
“Before, it was huge. It calmed down a little during [la pandémie]and now it’s coming back,” observes his mother, Marlene McLearie.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
A giant Saint Patrick had been installed on one of the floats.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
A leprechaun from Irish folklore took part in the parade.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
Musicians from an RCMP orchestra.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
A spectator displayed his badges and buttons.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
Mayor Valérie Plante greets the spectators gathered along Boulevard de Maisonneuve.
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PHOTO GRAHAM HUGHES, THE CANADIAN PRESS
Bagpipe players
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Further on, Alejandro Navarro is waiting for the parade to start with his boy. Even though he himself is not of Irish origin, the young father finds it important to participate in events in his community.
“And my son likes green!” It’s one of his favorite colors! », he exclaims, hugging his boy.
The parade, which kicked off around noon, forced the complete closure of Boulevard de Maisonneuve, between Rue du Fort and Rue Jeanne-Mance. The obstruction will remain in effect until 5 p.m.
This is 199e St. Patrick’s Day parade in Montreal. The first took place in 1824, making it the oldest of its kind in Canada.