St. Patrick's Day Parade 2025 in Cleveland, OH

Cleveland's St. Patrick's Day Parade is a beloved annual celebration that highlights the city’s rich Irish heritage. Drawing over 10,000 participants and more than 200 volunteers, the event turns the city into a sea of green as everyone dresses up in honor of St. Patrick. Organized by the United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland, the cherished tradition holds the title of Ohio’s oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Activities and Highlights

This year’s parade features the theme "Celebrate the Life of St. Brigid," adding a unique dimension to the festivities and honoring another revered figure in Irish culture. The 2025 parade will feature approximately 10,000 participants organized into 125 units, including marching bands, Irish dancers, community groups, and colorful floats. Attendees can expect traditional Irish music, bagpipers, and the lively presence of Irish wolfhounds, all contributing to an authentic celebration of Irish culture.

Schedule and Route

The parade will commence at 1:04 pm at the intersection of Superior Avenue and East 18th Street in Downtown Cleveland. The procession follows Superior Avenue, heading southwest, before briefly shifting northwest onto West Roadway. It concludes at the intersection of Rockwell Avenue and Ontario Street. Organizers suggest the stretch between East 9th Street and East 12th Street on Superior Avenue as a prime location for viewing the parade.

Cost and Parking

The Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade is free to attend. While no admission is required, attendees should plan for parking in downtown Cleveland. Several public parking lots and garages are available near the parade route, though spaces are likely to fill quickly. Public transportation, such as the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), is recommended for convenience.

Location and Nearby Attractions

The parade’s central location in downtown Cleveland provides easy access to local amenities and attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, or enjoy the scenic views along Lake Erie’s waterfront. For those looking to extend their stay, Cleveland offers a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to family-friendly options.

Historical Significance

The Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade dates back to 1842, making it one of the oldest such celebrations in the United States. The inaugural parade, organized by Rev. Peter McLaughlin, emphasized temperance and began with a Catholic mass at St. Mary’s on the Flats, followed by a procession of the Catholic Temperance Society. Over the years, the parade has grown significantly, evolving from a small community event into a large-scale celebration managed by the United Irish Societies since 1958.