It’s coming…the early spring event that everyone can get do with little preparation, have a silly time and see lots of smiling faces. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade down South Jefferson Street in Hastings forms in the alley behind WBCH Saturday, March 16 and steps off at 1 p.m.

 

Adults and kids with green dogs, hats, beads, feather boas and more elaborate costumes parade to celebrate being Irish, not being Irish, wanting to be Irish, St. Patrick for driving the snakes out of Ireland or just for the pleasure of doing something unscripted that doesn’t take much time, is enjoyable and a chance to see people  dressed funnier than you are.

 

Bring the kids because someone is always passing out candy. If you are going to be in the parade, you can call WBCH and tell them, or just show up. If you are downtown in Hastings at line up time, you’re welcome to join the ritual.

 

Be sure to say hello to Grand Marshal Ron Kloosterman. The six-block parade route ends where it began, but you can drop out anytime. It’s in the middle of March, so some might think that means spring weather; doesn’t matter, it may be balmy, snowy, raining, cold or warm, the parade goes on with everyone invited to walk in the parade, and then just go about their business with another of the most relaxed parades of the year under their belts.

 

The real Irish will probably stop for corned beef and cabbage and a green beer after.