Boston Prepares for 120th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The historic South Boston parade kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with heightened security and earlier start time to curb public intoxication.
- The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade, one of the largest in the U.S., celebrates its 120th year today, March 16, 2025.
- The event honors both Irish heritage and Evacuation Day, marking the British withdrawal from Boston during the Revolutionary War in 1776.
- This year’s parade begins at 11:30 a.m., earlier than previous years, as officials aim to reduce excessive drinking and rowdy behavior seen last year.
- Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Alanna Devlin Ball, a South Boston native and Invictus Games gold medalist, serves as this year’s parade marshal.
- City leaders have implemented stricter alcohol controls and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for disruptive behavior during the festivities.