Long Beach faithful celebrate Irish Day

The 27th annual St. Brendan the Navigator Irish Day Parade stepped off at Washington Boulevard and West Beech Street last Saturday, and hundreds gathered along the parade route to celebrate Irish heritage.

Each year, the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 17 hosts the parade as a tribute to Irish culture. It’s grown into arguably the biggest parade in Long Beach and is followed by the annual Irish Day festival in the West End, which showcases traditional Irish music, food and culture.

The event features multiple marching bands, students from the Hagen School of Irish Dance and representatives from various schools, civic groups and organizations throughout the city. City Court Judge Frank Dikranis served as the grand marshal for this year’s parade and festival.

In addition to the festival, this year’s event saw the return of the Kids Zone at West School, featuring a family friendly entertainment and age-appropriate activities for children.

The Irish Day parade and festival typically serves the dual purpose of extending the summer season a few more weeks for West End businesses.

"I'm pleased that the weather held up and we had no rain," said parade Chairman Bernie Petty. "It was a very nice show of support from the parade onlookers and the entire West End community in support of the AOH and our Irish heritage."