St. Patrick’s Day Parade Draws Massive Crowd for Bicentennial Celebration

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Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade marked its 200th anniversary with a record turnout, showcasing the enduring pride of the city’s Irish community. Despite being smaller and older than in the past, the community remains deeply connected to its heritage, said longtime attendee Rick Fitzgerald, who has witnessed the parade 50 times.

According to Lauren Tracey, vice-president of the United Irish Societies of Montreal, more than 100,000 spectators gathered to celebrate the milestone event, making it the most attended St. Patrick’s parade since the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Spectacular Procession

Sunday’s parade featured an impressive lineup of 120 groups, 20 floats, 60 merchant units, and 3,000 participants. The parade route stretched along Maisonneuve Boulevard, beginning at St-Marc Street and ending at St-Urbain Street.

Despite light rain at the start, the crowd remained enthusiastic, many dressed in green to honor the occasion. Veteran attendee Betty Hollett, 80, reflected on how the parade has evolved. “There used to be more floats and even people handing out drinks,” she recalled. Her late husband once played the bugle in the parade’s marching band, making the event a nostalgic experience for her.

Originally organized by the Hibernian Society of Montreal, the parade has been a city tradition since 1824.

Prime Minister Mark Carney Joins the Celebration

Among the notable attendees was newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney, making his first public appearance since taking office on Friday. Walking the parade route, he greeted spectators and was accompanied by Members of Parliament Steven Guilbeault, Rachel Bendayan, and Marc Miller.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, centre, is flanked by his Quebec lieutenant Steven Guilbeault, third from the left, and Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne, second from the right. Also pictured is Irish politician Timmy Dooley, second from the left.

Carney also marked a personal milestone—his 60th birthday. As he walked, some revelers in the crowd broke into a cheerful rendition of "Happy Birthday," adding to the festive atmosphere. Many chanted “Canada!” as he passed, showing their excitement for both the parade and the country’s new leader.

Montreal’s Irish Legacy

Montreal’s Irish heritage remains deeply rooted in the city’s culture, despite changes over the years. MP Marc Miller, who has Irish ancestry, described the Irish community as “a lovely, vibrant part of Montreal.” He acknowledged that while the population is aging, Irish pubs, traditions, and culture continue to thrive.

Mayor Valérie Plante also participated, walking alongside Luc Rabouin, the newly elected leader of Projet Montréal. “Today, we are all Irish,” Rabouin declared, capturing the inclusive spirit of the event.

A Global Gathering

The parade attracted visitors from across Canada, the U.S., and beyond. Among them was Timmy Dooley, a Teachta Dála (Irish parliamentarian) who traveled from Ireland to witness the celebration. He expressed admiration for how Irish descendants, even generations removed from their homeland, maintain a strong connection to their cultural roots.

Young Montrealers Keep Traditions Alive

While the older generation reflects on past parades, younger Montrealers continue to embrace their Irish heritage. Amanda Keating, 19, was crowned this year’s St. Patrick’s Parade Queen.

“For me, St. Patrick’s Day has always been about family,” she shared, recalling annual dinners at her grandmother’s house. Becoming parade queen has allowed her to get more involved in Montreal’s Irish organizations. “They really feel like a big family,” she said.

Queen Amanda Keating waves to the crowd at the 200th St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Montreal on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

The bicentennial St. Patrick’s Day Parade proved that Montreal’s Irish spirit is as strong as ever. From long-time attendees to first-time visitors, the event brought together thousands to celebrate a rich history and a promising future.