St. Patrick's Day Parade Inc.

Overview

St. Patrick's Day Parade Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in New York State. It is responsible for organizing the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade, one of the largest and most iconic parades in the world. The organization plays a crucial role in promoting Irish culture and heritage in the United States.

History

The New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade was first held on March 17, 1762, by Irish expatriates and military personnel. It has been annually organized since then, with a few exceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic[1][4]. St. Patrick's Day Parade Inc. oversees the event, ensuring its continuation as a vibrant celebration of Irish identity.

Organization

The parade is led by a board of directors, with key positions held by prominent figures such as Sean Lane as chairperson and Hilary Beirne as chief administrative officer[1]. The organization is supported by various Irish cultural and societal groups across New York City, including the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) and the 69th New York Infantry Regiment[2][4].

Activities

The parade features over 150,000 participants from numerous Irish organizations, schools, colleges, and uniformed services, attracting more than two million spectators[1][4]. It is characterized by its traditional march format, excluding commercial elements like floats and automobiles[4]. The event is reviewed from the steps of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and is a significant platform for celebrating Irish-American contributions and heritage[2][4].

Legal Status

St. Patrick's Day Parade Inc. operates as a registered New York State charity with the EIN 11-3489855[2]. Its status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization allows it to receive charitable donations and support its cultural and community initiatives.

Impact

The organization's efforts contribute to the celebration of Irish culture, as well as educational and scholarship initiatives through its association with the St. Patrick's Day Foundation. The foundation supports various activities throughout the year, highlighting the contributions of the Irish to American society[3].