St. Patrick’s Day Parade brings Irish spirit to Holland
Blustery winds couldn't keep Holland's Irish spirit down as the annual St. Patrick's Day parade took place in downtown on Saturday.
HOLLAND — Blustery winds couldn't keep Holland's Irish spirit down as the annual St. Patrick's Day parade took place in downtown on Saturday.
A sea of people — many dressed in Kelly green and waving tri-colored Irish flags celebrated their love of Ireland and its patron saint.
The parade began at the Civic Center and made its way down Columbia Avenue to Eighth Street, filling the route with smiles, laughter, and plenty of candy. Following the parade, local eateries and pubs welcomed parade-goers with warm hospitality, offering hearty meals, pints, and live Irish music.
Parade-goers filled the streets of Holland on Saturday, March 15, 2025. [Photos/Cathy Seaver]
The air was filled with joy, and for one festive weekend, everyone in Holland was Irish.
Among the notable characters was St. Patrick himself. The patron saint of Ireland is believed to have traveled from Britain to Ireland in 432 AD, bringing Christianity to the island nation. According to legend, he also drove all the snakes out of Ireland, leaving it forever snake-free.
St. Patrick is thought to have died on March 17, 461, and is believed to be buried in Downpatrick.
Following the parade, Holland's Irish pub The Curragh hosted live music.
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