Milford’s second annual St. Patrick’s Day parade a success

Milford was a sea of green at its second annual St. Patrick’s Day parade last Sunday, March 16. The tireless parade organizers, Joe Dooley and Jenny Gagnon, reviewed last year’s parade to assess how they could make it even better, and this year’s parade exceeded their expectations with more than 5,000 people and 80 floats.

Paula Luckring said, “Building on the success of last year, this is much more organized with a great turnout, good weather (the rain held off till evening), and a lot of happy, celebratory people.”

Joe Dooley praised Police Chief Matt McCormack for the noticeable increased police presence. There was additional parking at Milford Beach and the Milford Hospitality Group (MHG) provided a trolley continuously taking people from Milford Beach to Second Street and La Posada and back.

Steven Rosado, director of Business Development for MHG, pointed out that this year they rolled out the first St. Patrick’s Day block party at Jive. “One of our goals was to create a family atmosphere that people could enjoy all day long. I’m proud to say that at one point, we were serving more cotton candy than beer which confirmed that families came and enjoyed themselves. We even had games in the street to keep kids engaged.”

The Dimmick Inn and La Posada were also serving in the street. Jeff McQuaid, Milford’s bagpiper par excellence, delighted crowds at La Posada and Log Tavern Brewing.

Even though the crowd was huge, there seemed to be more interaction between the marchers and the spectators than last year. It had that small town feeling and people were shouting out “hey” to the people on the floats that they knew, while those on the floats were throwing green beads and lollipops to the crowd. Gagnon said, “The interaction was terrific. More families came and stayed longer.”

Maureen Dooley, noting bands such as the Penn York Highlander Band and the Black Diamond Pipe and Drum Band, said, “They love coming here because the community is so full of spirit.” The three judges Jack Boyle, Patrick Reilly, and Barbara Tarquinio were working very hard observing the floats and they awarded the “Best Private Float” to Friends of the Library, “The Best Commercial Float” to Iron Valley Real Estate, and the float with the “Most Irish Spirit” to Eric Gagnon with his Paddy Wagon.

The floats had great variety and the people on them were in great spirits. Bill Rosado, (owner of MHG) said, “Our beautiful country celebrates St. Patrick’s Day in most corners of the nation, and I’m proud that Milford joins in the celebration. Thanks to all the people who worked so hard to organize one of the best events in town. And God bless America!”

Plans for next year are already in motion. Many of the smaller businesses want to be involved and the dynamic duo of Jenny Gagnon and Joe Dooley are already planning for the St Patrick’s Day parade in 2026. More information and an application can be found at milfordstpaddys.com.