WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Northeastern Pennsylvania has wrapped up not one but two big Irish celebrations this weekend. Following the Electric City’s Saint Patrick’s Parade on Saturday was the Diamond City’s Saint Patrick’s Parade on Sunday.
It was quite a sight to see Sunday afternoon.
The streets surrounding Public Square were packed with thousands of people celebrating Irish pride.
The city of Wilkes-Barre’s 45th Saint Patrick’s Parade did not disappoint.
The sound of bagpipes blared along South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre on Sunday.
Other Irish music also filled the chilly air, and Irish step dancers shuffled along the street at the city of Wilkes-Barre’s 45th Saint Patrick’s Parade.
“It’s so much excitement and fun and a great opportunity to connect with the community,” said Emily Woss with the Emerald Isle Step Dancers.
Local pubs, first-responders, and community organizations were among more than 100 groups to process along the parade route that circled around Public Square, much to the delight of the huge crowd.
“I like the floats, which is pretty cool. I love the bands, and it’s really a nice, awesome vibe as they are coming past you and all of that,” Wilkes-Barre resident Mike OToole said.
Wilkes-Barre City Police Captain Michael Boyle served as the parade grand marshal.
He says leading his city in this way was a special moment.
“I’ve attended this function for as long as I could remember with my family, so it was a great honor to serve in this capacity, just a pleasure. I’m smiling ear to ear as you can see,” Captain Boyle stated.
Thousands of people who came to watch brought just as much energy as the parade participants.
“We just wanted to go all out. I like a little bling, glitter coins and did our best to make it,” Angela Czapla from Wilkes-Barre said.
As luck of the Irish would have it for one Diamond City crew, there was no rain on this parade.
“Just an awesome day. It’s beautiful, the sun’s out, awesome weather, and you can’t go wrong with this,” OToole added.
