Historic 200th St. Patrick’s Day parade ready to roll through Montreal
Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day parade has a rich history that dates back to 1824 when it first started on Saint-Paul Street. Over the centuries, this annual tradition has become a beloved event in the city, attracting large crowds despite the often cold March weather.
Author and journalist Alan Hustak, who published a book on the parade’s history, described it as a reflection of Montreal’s own history. The first parade in 1824 was a gathering of War of 1812 veterans looking to celebrate, and over the years, it evolved into a mix of Irish and French Canadian Catholics united against British colonialism.
In 1834, the St. Patrick’s Society was established to help organize the parade, and by 1860, the Irish immigrant community in Quebec had grown significantly. Ken Quinn, a historian with the United Irish Societies of Montreal, explained that the early parades were all-male activities aimed at showcasing Irish pride.
Interestingly, Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day parade predates Dublin’s official parade, which only began in 1931. The parade in Montreal has evolved from a religious observation to a diverse festival celebrating Irish heritage and springtime in the city.
Despite being cancelled four times over its 200-year history, most recently due to the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the parade has continued to thrive. In 2022, organizers worked to bring the tradition back on track, and in 2023, thousands of spectators lined the streets to watch the parade return with renewed vigor.
This year’s parade, marking its 200th anniversary, features Grand Marshall Danny Doyle, who recalls the parade’s earlier days when it had a more military-like feel. Today, the parade has transformed into a multicultural celebration with over 120 participating groups, making it a truly inclusive event that reflects the diversity of Montreal.
As the parade marches into its third century, it remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the Irish community in Montreal and a symbol of unity and celebration for all who participate.
