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.