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Annual Irish Season About to get in Full Swing in New Jersey

Carolyne Volpe Curley

Saturday, February 16, 2013 • 1:38am

For over a century now, the Irish in America have learned that a wonderful way to get through the cold of winter is to celebrate with the warmth of friends. The season is about to get in full swing for the annual Saint Patrick’s festivities for the Irish in New Jersey. No need to wait until March to celebrate with bagpipes and Celtic dancers, we’ve gathered a list of events that start this weekend!


The New Jersey State Police Pipes and Drums of the Blue and Gold  
Credit: cliffviewpilot

  • Sussex County St. Patrick’s Day Committee - 10th Annual Grand Marshals’ Dinner
    6pm 
    Lake Mohawk Country Club, 21 The Boardwalk, Sparta
    This Event is Now Sold Out.
    The evening’s event will honor John and Sue Sullivan and Dawn Delaney who will be recognized with the traditional presentation of the Grand Marshals’ Sash. The Grand Event begins with a cocktail hour at 6pm, dinner at 7pm, followed by entertainment from pipers Rob Henry and John Loggie, step dancers from the Endean Academy of Irish Step dancers led by Emily Endean and the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County. For further information, call Dennis Harrington at (973) 827-9179 or visit their website.

    Guests mingle at the Sussex Grand Marshals’ Dinner  Credit: Jennifer Jean Miller

  • Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Committee - Parade Fundraiser
    2pm to 6pm
    Boathouse Bar and Grill, 1309 Main Street, Belmar
    Admission will include a hot and cold buffet as well as entertainment by the Billy Lawlor Band. “Please come out and support the fundraiser and all the good the committee does to put on a great day in March.” Tickets: $10; for further information please call (732) 681-5221
     
  • John J. Giblin Association - 59th Anniversary Cocktail Party 
    4:30pm to 9pm 
    Caldwell College Student Center, 120 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell 
    The cocktail party will include entertainment by the Willie Lynch Showband and there will be an exhibition of step dancing by the DeNogla School of Irish Dancing. 2013 Honorees will be Sean J. McGinley and Carmel A. Portuese. Edward Giblin of Verona and Terrence O’Reilly of Bloomfield are co-chairs of the event. Tickets include a buffet dinner and open bar. The Giblin Association is an Essex County-based civic and charitable organization, whose standard-bearer is Assemblyman Thomas P. Giblin of Montclair. Tickets: $35; for further information call (973) 808-0022. 

    Giblin Association officers and 2013 honorees include, from left: Thomas P. Giblin, standard bearer; honorees Sean J. McGinley and Carmel A. Portuese co-chairs Terrence J. O’Reilly and, Edward M. Giblin and association President Raymond Simione  Credit: Giblin Association
     

  • Hamilton Parade and Scholarship Committee - Grand Marshal Luncheon
    12pm to 2pm 
    Ancient Order of Hibernian Hall, 2419 Kuser Road, Hamilton
    This year’s luncheon is an “Irish Salute to Irish Immigration.” Join the St. Patrick's Parade and Scholarship Committee as they honor this year's Grand Marshals Maggie and Joe Connell. Tickets: $45; for reservations and more information, call Vince McKelvey at (609) 586-3851.
     
  • Seton Hall Irish Studies Discussion Series presents: 
    Tending the Hearth: The Domestic Experience of Irish Women, in Song
    7:30pm
    Nursing Building Amphitheater, 400 South Orange Avenue, South Orange
    The public is welcome to the Seton Hall Irish Studies fascinating presentation and performance by SHU alumna Sara McCabe. The hearth defined domesticity in Ireland, and because of its significance, it is the central component in many of the rites, rituals, prayers and songs that comprise the corpus of the woman's oral tradition and culture in Ireland. Exploring these songs opens a window into their lives and affords us a greater understanding of their experiences. The fear, joy, anger, and sorrow expressed in the lyrics are those that all women can relate to, regardless of the time and place in which they are sung. Sara McCabe has been singing professionally for 19 years. She has served as a cantor at various churches throughout New Jersey, and has performed as a featured vocalist at many concerts and events throughout the tri-state area. Tickets are free; for further information, contact Maura Grace Harrington at (201) 463-5967 or by email at maura.harrington@shu.edu.

    Vocalist Sara McCabe  Credit: Sara McCabe

  • Centenary Stage Company presents “The Cripple of Inishmaan” 
    2pm, Preview Performance
    The production will continue through Mar. 10
    Sitnik Theater of the Lackland Center, 715 Grand Ave, Hackettstown 
    “The Cripple of Inishmaan” is a little Irish yarn about a little Irish island and little Billy Claven’s big Irish dream. It's 1934 and the sleepy island of Inishmaan is abuzz with the news that Hollywood has come to County Galway, as a famous director arrives on the neighboring island to film his movie The Man of Aran. Up until then, “Cripple Billy,” as he’s known on the little island of Inishmaan, has spent most of his days gazing at cows and yearning for a girl who wants no part of him. Billy becomes determined to cross the sea and audition for the Yank but the poverty-stricken, gossip-loving locals take a harder view of his gamble for fame and fortune. Performance times are Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. There are 2pm matinees on Wednesdays Feb. 27 and March 6. Ticket information is available through their website.

    Left to right: Carolyn Popp as Kate, Catherine Rust as Eileen, Leah Barker as Helen, Mark Byrne as Babbybobby, Tom Morin as Cripple Billy, Kathleen Huber as Mammy, Kyle Parham as Bartley, and David Edwards as Johnnypateenmike. Credit: Centenary Stage Company
     
  • Pipes & Drums of the Blue and Gold - Warm-up to St. Patrick’s Day Pub Night
    6pm to 12am
    Royal Albert Palace, 1050 King Georges Post Road, Fords
    The public is invited to warm up to St. Patrick’s Day with the New Jersey State Police Pipes and Drums of the Blue and Gold. Entertainment will be provided by the Rocktologists as well as by the band themselves. Table requests are available, tickets include buffet dinner and beverages. The Pipes and Drums of the Blue and Gold is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the art and culture of bagpipe bands and promoting the image of the New Jersey State Police. Tickets: $30; for further information email NJSPPipeBand@yahoo.com. 

    The New Jersey State Police Pipes and Drums of the Blue and Gold  
    Credit: Pipes and Drums of the Blue and Gold
     
  • The Guard Pipes and Drums - The 8th Annual Fundraiser: Guard’s Welcome
    6pm to 11pm
    School of St. Elizabeth, 30 Seney Drive, Bernardsville
    The Guard is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the Celtic Arts through musical performance and competition. It was organized as a vehicle for the advancement and appreciation of traditional Celtic heritage and music. This evening includes Fish and Chips, beer, ale, Irish Dancers, The Guard Pipes and Drums and entertainment by Paddy and the Pale Boys. Tickets: $45; for further information contact the Pipe Major at kevmurphy20@gmail.com and for tickets visit their website.

    T    he Guard Pipes and Drums perform at their annual Guard’s Welcome.
    Credit: The Guard Pipes and Drums  
     
  • Party in Honor of Mike Merwin, Deputy Grand Marshal of the West Orange Parade
    Harrison Avenue Tavern, 36 Harrison Ave, West Orange
    The public is invited to join Mike's family and friends as they honor him as the Deputy Grand Marshal. Tickets include finger foods, one drink as well as entertainment by Paddy and the Pale Boys. Tickets: $20; for information call (973)736-9686 or email westorangeparade@gmail.com.

    Paddy and the Pale Boys  Credit: Cathy Miller Photography

  • Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Committee - Parade Fundraiser
    2pm to 6pm
    507 Main Street, 507 Main Street, Belmar 
    Admission will include a hot and cold buffet as well as entertainment by the Billy Lawlor Band and Pat Roddy. “Please come out and support the fundraiser and all the good the committee does to put on a great day in March.” Tickets: $10; for further information please call (732) 681-6301.

    Pat Roddy Band  Credt: Pat Roddy Band
     
  • Highland’s Business Partnership - St. Patrick’s Chili Cook Off
    3pm to 7pm
    Off The Hook, 1 Navesink Avenue, Highlands
    Tickets include snacks, chili tasting, beer and two voting ballots. All proceeds will benefit the 2013 Highland’s St. Patrick’s Parade. This year’s parade is dedicated to the First Responders. At the event, the Grand Marshal Rebecca Kane and Deputy Grand Marshal Dave Parker will be presented with their Sash. There will be two contests, the “Professional” Cook Off (commercial) will begin at 4pm sharp and the “Amateur” Cook Off (residents) will begin promptly at 5pm. Once the chili lovers have tasted all chili, they will vote for their favorite and drop their ballot in the ballot box. The results will be tallied and the winners will be announced at 6pm. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. In addition to the People’s Choice, there will be an independent panel of 5 judges. See here for rules and registration. Tickets: $25; for further information call (732) 291-4713 or or email HBP@highlandsnj.com.

    Chili Cook Off 
     
  • DeNogla School of Irish Dancing - 2013 World Qualifier Fundraiser
    4pm to 7pm
    Kenilworth Veterans Hall, 33 South 21st Street, Kenilworth
    Entertainment to be provided by the students and teachers from the DeNogla School of Irish Dance. Tickets: $25; for information email info@denoglaschool.com.

    DeNogla School of Irish Dance Credit: Jen McGovern
     
  • West Orange St. Patrick's Committee - Annual Investiture Gala
    4pm to 8pm
    Mayfair Farms, 481 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange
    Join the West Orange Parade Committee as they celebrate with Grand Marshal John McKeon and Deputy Grand Marshals Barbara Hughes and Michael Merwin. Tickets include an Open Bar, hors d'oeuvres, dessert as well as entertainment by Eamonn Ryan. Tickets $50; for further information contact Katie Yurgel at (973) 868-8178 or email westorangeparade@gmail.com.
    Left to right: Deputy Grand Marshal Michael Merwin, Grand Marshal John McKeon and Deputy Grand Marshal Barbara Hughes  
    Credit: West Orange Parade Committee

  • Essex County Law Enforcement and Firefighters -
    Kick-Off to St. Patrick’s Day Event
    5:30pm-9:30pm
    McGovern’s Tavern, 58-60 New Street, Newark 
    Kick-Off St. Patrick’s Day with the Essex County Law Enforcement and Firefighters. The event includes an open bar, food and entertainment. All funds raised will benefit The Emerald Society’s Good & Welfare Fund. Tickets: $20; for information contact McGovern’s Tavern at (973) 643-3984.

    McGovern’s Tavern  Credit: Sean McGovern
     
  • Morris County Saint Patrick's Committee - 2013 Grand Marshal Reception
    6pm to 10pm
    Park Savoy, 236 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park
    The evening includes beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres along with live music by the Willie Lynch Band. The reception this year is held in honor of Sheriff Ed Rochford, 2013 Grand Marshall. Tickets: $85, if purchased by Feb. 22., $75 at the door. For further information contact Ryan Dawson at ryandawsonrealtor@verizon.net.

    Grand Marshal Reception  Credit: Morris County Saint Patrick's Parade Committee
     
  • Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Committee -
    An Evening of Irish Culture: 40th Anniversary Celebration
    6:30pm to 10:30pm  
    Waterview Pavilion, 800 River Road, Belmar
    The evening includes a Cocktail Hour with hors d’oeuvres, four-course dinner and open bar. Entertainment will be presented by Thomas Wesley Stern and performances by Irish step dancers. “Join us as we recognize those who founded and organized the first parade, plus all the Grand and Deputy Grand Marshals of the past 40 years!” Tickets: $65 - available in advance only through Feb. 22. Tickets may be purchased online or email IrishCultureEvent@gmail.com.

    Belmar Parade Committee’s An Evening of Irish Culture  Credit: Fran Griffin

  • Sussex County St. Patrick’s Day Committee - Mass and Irish Breakfast
    8:30am, Mass, St. Jude the Apostle Church, 4-24 Beaver Run Road, Hamburg
    9:45am to 12pm, Breakfast, Irish Cottage Inn, 602 State Route 23, Franklin
    The Mass honoring St. Patrick, the Patron St. of Ireland, will be accompanied by the Choir from Pope John XXIII High School; the traditional rendition of “Lady of Knock” will be performed by John Christiano Jr. Following the Mass there will be a Traditional Irish Breakfast which includes: bangers (Irish sausages), rashers (Irish bacon), eggs, potatoes, beans, black pudding, white pudding, tomato, brown bread, coffee and tea. “You won't  be disappointed and certainly you won't go away hungry!” The 50/50 will be drawn at the breakfast. A donation presentation will be made to the Partnership for Social Services & Sunrise House Foundation. Tickets: $14, must be purchased by Feb. 25, no walk-ins available at the door. Checks should be mailed to: S.C.St.Patrick's Day Committee, Inc., and mailed to Harrington, 23 Taylor Road, Franklin NJ 07416.  For further information, call Mary (973) 827-9179 or visit their website.
     
  • Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Committee - 
    Parade Investiture Mass and Luncheon
    10am, Mass St. Rose Church, 603 Seventh Avenue, Belmar
    11am, Luncheon Mike Doolan's, 700 Route 71, Spring Lake Heights
    Luncheon Tickets: $30, for information call 732-681-6262

    Belmar Parade Investiture Mass   Credit: Fran Griffin
     
  • Nutley's 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade
    10am, Mass - St. Mary's Church, Nutley
    1pm, Parade begins
    3pm to 7pm, Post-Parade Party, Knights of Columbus, 150 Chestnut Street, Nutley
    The parade route is from Holy Family Church down Harrison Street to Franklin Avenue, ending at Chestnut Street. 2013 Parade Dignitaries: Grand Marshal: John Kelly, Deputy Grand Marshal: Seamus Burke, Member of the Year: Steve Tucholski, Parade Queen: Alicia Bennett. Join the Alliance afterwards for the post-parade party to be held at the Knights of Columbus. The festivities start after the parade and include music, food, drink and plenty of Irish Fun. Post-Party Tickets: $25 for adults ($20 if purchased in advance), $10 for 12-18 year olds, Free for kids under 12. For further information call Joe Milbauer at (973) 626-4439.

    Credit: Nutley Irish American Alliance
     
  • Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 9, Upper Montclair -
    113th Anniversary St. Patrick Celebration Dinner and Dance
    6:30pm - 12am
    Mayfair Farms, 481 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange
    The evening begins with a cocktail hour, open bar and Silent Auction, always one of the evening’s highlights. Entertainment will be provided by The Eamonn Ryan Showband. This year the AOH is honoring Robert P. Lynch, Sean O’Neill and Patrick J. Millar.  Join the AOH as they celebrate their many accomplishments and contributions to the Irish-American community. Tickets: $90 ($80 prior to Feb. 20) available through their website. For further information contact Jim Fallon at 201-245-2267.

    Eamonn Ryan of Verona entertaining guests. Credit: AnnMarie Carracino-Ryan
     
  • American Irish Association of Woodbridge – Cocktail Party Fundraiser
    7pm - 12am
    The Forge Inn, 1002 Route 9, Woodbridge
    The countdown to the annual Woodbridge St. Patrick's Day Parade is under way. This American Irish Association of Woodbridge is a civic and social organization over 45-years old. They are inviting the public to join them in launching the season at their cocktail party fundraiser for the Woodbridge Parade.Their kick-off event includes an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and entertainment. Honorees include Grand Marshall Ed Mullen, Irish Man of the Year Frank Darcy, Jr.,Irish Woman of the Year Claire Miloscia, Miss American Irish Kayla Meehan and Lady in Waiting Jessica Jacko. Tickets: $50, ($45 in advance), for further information contact Frank Darcy, Jr. at (908) 578-0005.

    Credit:  American Irish Association of Woodbridge
     
  • Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 1, Somerset County -
    30th Anniversary Irish Dinner Dance
    7pm to 12am
    St. Mary’s Parish Hall, 1900 Brooks Blvd, Hillsborough
    In honor of the AOH 2013 Hibernian Of The Year, Cliff Roberts, the event includes dinner, imported beer, wine and soda. The evening festivities features entertainment by A Band of Rogues, the St. Ann's of Hampton Pipes & Drums and the Peter Smith School of Irish Dance. Tickets: $50 (in advance by Feb. 23 - no tickets will be sold at the door). For further information, call Derek Kirby at (908) 872-5032, e-mail JDerekKirby@Yahoo.com or see their  Facebook Page and Website.

    A Band of Rogues  Credit: A Band of Rogues

  • Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Parade 
    12:30pm, Parade begins
    In 1974, the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade proceeded down the Main Streets of Belmar and Lake Como. 40 years later this parade is a Jersey Shore tradition and one of the largest parades in NJ. This year the parade honors Larry Walsh as Grand Marshal, and Anne Aker and Jacqueline Cavanagh as Co-Deputy Grand Marshals. It is dedicated in memory of Jim Byrne, former Grand Marshal, and Mary McFadden Trachman, former Deputy Grand Marshal. The parade route follows along up North Boulevard along Lake Como. For further information email info@belmarparade.com.

    Credit: Fran Griffin

  • Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders - Salute to the Irish Celebration
    5pm to 6pm
    Hall of Records, 465 MLK Jr. Blvd., Room 506, Newark 
    The annual Salute to the Irish Celebration will be highlighted by presentations of the Board’s Commendations to the Grand Marshals and Deputy Grand Marshals of Essex County’s three St. Patrick’s Parades: Nutley, West Orange and Newark. Entertainment is to be provided by the Essex County Emerald Society Pipes and Drums and the DeNogla School of Irish Dance. For further information, contact Freeholder Brendan W. Gill at (973) 621-4452.
     
  • Women of Irish Heritage -
    Recognition of the Grand Marshals and Deputy Grand Marshals
    7:30pm
    Shillelagh Club, 648 Prospect Avenue, West Orange
    The Women of Irish Heritage is a social group that meets at the Shillelagh Club on the first Wednesday of the month from Sept to June. The club promotes Irish Heritage and they also support several charities including Morristown Memorial cancer programs, Project Children, St John's Food Kitchen and a charity that supports unwed pregnant women. This particular meeting is a perfect time for prospective members to come by and make new friends as Parade Committees from the surrounding towns will be there to introduce their honorees to the membership. This is a free and informal event; light refreshments are served. For further information contact their current president, Kathy McCann, by phone at (973) 432-0669 or email kathleenmccann@optonline.net.

    2012 West Orange Parade Credit: Women of Irish Heritage

  • Morris County St. Patrick’s Parade 
    10am, Mass - Church of the Assumption of the B.V.M., 91 Maple Ave., Morristown
    12pm, Parade begins
    The parade starts off near the corner of South Street and James Street and proceeds up South Street around the Morristown Green and ends at Atno Avenue. The parade features Grand Marshal Sheriff Ed Rochford. There will be about 20 bands with about 70,000 in attendance either in the parade or as spectators. “Please come and see the largest family oriented St. Patrick’s Day Parade in all of New Jersey.”

    Morris County parade day.  Credit: Morris County's St. Patrick's Day
     
  • Newark St. Patrick’s Committee - Deputy Grand Marshal’s Reception
    4pm to 7pm
    McGovern’s Tavern, 58-60 New Street, Newark
    Join the Newark St. Patrick's Parade Committee in honoring their 2013 Deputy Grand Marshal, Eileen P. Gilleece. Tickets include a supper buffet, beer, wine, soda and entertainment by the Ed Kennedy and Chris Kelly Band. Tickets: $40, for further information, please contact Kerri Arrington at (917) 318-0098.
     
  • Morris County Post-Parade Party
    4pm to 8pm
    Blackthorne Irish Restaurant, 1735 Route 46 E, Parsippany
    The Blackthorn Irish Restaurant and Pub believes that that there really is a little Irish in everyone. Come meet Paddy after the Morris County parade and relax with friends while listening to live music performed by the Around The House Band. Make sure to bring the children because KIDS EAT FREE! The restaurant's menus feature a wide variety of classic Irish and American Fare as well as some Blackthorn originals; view their menus online. For further information call (973) 334-4900 or visit their website.

    Paddy and his friend inviting friends to the Pub.  
    Credit: Blackthorn Irish Restaurant and Pub
     
  • The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Hunterdon County -
    Annual Dinner Dance and Celebration
    7pm to 11pm
    Grand Colonial, 86 Route 173 West, Hampton 
    Tickets include dinner, beer and entertainment provided by the Willie Lynch Band. This event sold out last year so act now and book your reserved table. The Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick assists families in need of paying medical bills while at the same time promoting Irish-American culture. Tickets: $65 ($55 in advance). Make your check out to “FSSP Hunterdon County” and include your request for table reservations and a return address. Mail your check and request for reservation with your return address to: R. Junge, PO Box 265, Lebanon, NJ 08833. Once your check has been received your tickets will be mailed to your return address. For further information, see their website.

    The Friendly Sons.  Credit: Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick - Hunterdon County

  • Somerville 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Parade 
    9am, Mass - Immaculate Conception Church, 35 Mountain Avenue, Somerville 
    10am, Irish Flag Raising Ceremony - Borough Hall, 25 West End Ave., Somerville 
    12:30pm, Pre-parade show at Reviewing Stands: 
    Main St. and Davenport St.,Somerville and Main St. and Maple St., Somerville 
    1:30pm, Parade begins 
    The pre-parade show will feature Irish dancing exhibitions from four separate dance schools: Davis Academy of Irish Dancing, Lynn Academy of Irish Dance, Peter Smith School of Irish Dance and the Curran School of Irish Dance. The parade begins at the corner of Main and Grove Streets in downtown Somerville and will proceed west to West End Avenue near Immaculate Conception Church. This year’s Grand Marshall is Monsignor Seamus F. Brennan, Pastor of Immaculate Conception. The Somerville Parade has seen a surge in popularity with over 20,000 in attendance over the last couple of years.  For further information, contact Brendan Nally at  bnally@somervillenj.org. 

    St. Ann's of Hampton Pipes and Drums Credit: Somerville St. Patrick’s Parade 
     
  • Woodbridge St. Patrick's Parade
    9am, Flag Raising Ceremony at Town Hall, 1 Main Street, Woodbridge 
    1:30pm, Parade begins
    Join the American Irish Association of Woodbridge for their annual celebration! The Parade steps off from Woodbridge High School and ends at Woodbridge Town Hall. Honorees include Grand Marshall: Ed Mullen, Irish Man of the Year: Frank Darcy, Jr., Irish Woman of the Year: Claire Miloscia, Miss American Irish: Kayla Meehan, Lady in Waiting: Jessica Jacko.
     
  • West Orange St. Patrick's Parade
    9:30am, Mass at at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1 Eagle Rock Ave., West Orange
    12:15pm, Parade begins
    The parade steps-off from Town Hall at Main Street and Mt. Pleasant Avenue and travels up Main Street where it ends at Our Lady of Lourdes. 2013 honorees are Grand Marshal John McKeon, Deputy Grand Marshal Barbara Hughes and Deputy Grand Marshal Michael Merwin. The Parade continues to thrive; its true dedication to the spirit of St. Patrick has led to its success as a regional event, which is evidenced by the diverse thousands who attend the day’s festivities. For further information, email westorangeparade@gmail.com.

    Essex Shillelagh Pipes and Drums leading the West Orange Parade
    Credit: West Orange St. Patrick’s Parade
     
  • Bergen County 32nd Annual St. Patrick's Parade
    1pm, Flag raising ceremony, Grand Marshal’ s Speech, Roy Brown Middle School, Bergenfield
    2pm, Parade begins
    Sponsored by the Bergen County Council of Irish Associations, this parade has a proud tradition of honoring the Patron Saint of Ireland and the Irish people of Bergen County. Sister Mary Trinity Kenny of the Missionary Franciscan Sisters in Tenafly, has been named this year’s Grand Marshal, and Tom Egan has been selected to receive the Gunning Award. The Parade will begin at South Washington Avenue on Englewood Avenue and proceeds north along Washington Avenue to St. John's R.C.Church. For further information call 201-784-9626 or visit their website.

    Credit: The Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County
     
  • West Hudson 40th Annual St. Patrick's Parade
    2pm, Parade begins
    The 2013 Parade, organized by the United Irish Associations of West Hudson, will be one of the largest since its beginning in 1973. Now expanded to 5 divisions, the parade has over 50 marching units taking part. The Grand Marshal James J. Miller, Sr., Deputy Grand Marshal Daniel Choffo and the Honorary Irish Woman of the Year, Carol Jean Doyle, will be escorted by the award-winning Color Guard of the West Hudson Marine Corps League, the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band and accompanied by over 1000 marchers on a parade route through Harrison, East Newark and Kearny.

    St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band marches through the streets of Kearny
    Credit: St. Columcille Pipe Band
     
  • Dangler Funeral Home - 19th Annual St. Patrick’s Party
    2pm
    Dangler Funeral Home, 340 Main Street, West Orange
    Immediately following the West Orange Parade, stop over and share some food, drink, music and fun! All proceeds will benefit the Family Reach Foundation in Parsippany which provides financial support to families fighting cancer. Tickets: $20; for further information call (973) 325-1212.
     
  • Hackettstown 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade
    3:30pm, Parade begins
    Sunday will find the town filled with spectators coming to enjoy the biggest parade of the year which will include Irish bands, community groups, bagpipes, drums, Centenary College clubs and groups, horses, dancers, fire departments and rescue squads and - hometown favorites - the Junior (made up of musicians age 8 to 18) and Senior Colonial Musketeers and the Hackettstown Community Band. The Hackettstown Business Improvement District will host the parade while honoring Dr. Barbara Lewthwaite, President of Centenary College, as this year's Grand Marshall. The parade begins in front of Bea McNally's Irish Pub and Eatery (Washington Street and Grand Avenue) marching towards Main Street, making a right towards Mountain Avenue / Route 182 and continues down Mountain Avenue to the gates of Union Cemetery across from Quick Chek. This is the only St. Pat’s parade in all of Warren County. Contact Director@HackettstownBID.com or visit their website for details.

    Credit: Colonial Musketeers Senior Ancient Fife and Drum Corps of Hackettstown

  • The Irish Tenors in Concert
    8pm
    Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt Street, Englewood
    Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns, and Ronan Tynan have been touring together as The Irish Tenors since 1998; they continue now with their “Let's Celebrate Ireland Tour.” They are well known from their PBS specials for performing songs as “My Heart Will Go On,” “Fairytale Of New York,” along with the traditional Irish tunes “Danny Boy,” “Whiskey in the Jar” and “Fields Of Athenry.” Tickets: $85, $48, $38, $28; they can be purchased through the Center’s website.
    Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns, and Ronan Tynan have been touring together as The Irish Tenors since 1998.  Credit: The Irish Tenors 

  • Friends of Brian Boru - 70th Annual Dinner Dance
    6:30pm to 11pm
    Mayfair Farms, 481 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange 
    The evening’s festivities include dinner and open bar, as well as entertainment by the Perry Brothers. 2013 Honorees are Thomas Callahan, Peggy O’Boyle Dunigan and Rev. Msgr. Edward G. Bradley. Tickets: $75; for further information contact Paul H. Reilly, Sr. at (732) 495-9276.

    Essex County Police and Fire Emerald Society Pipes and Drums entertain at
    the Brian Boru Dinner Dance  Credit: Friends of Brian Boru

  • Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of the Oranges  - 112th Anniversary Dinner 
    6:30pm 
    Mayfair Farms, 481 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange 
    This male-only, black-tie event includes cocktails, followed by dinner. The evening will honor the Young Man of the Year, Publicity Chairman Brian M. Lowe, and the Speaker will be the Honorable John M. Boyle. Tickets: $100; for further information contact Eugene J. Byrne, Esq. at (973) 746-3283
     
  • Celtic Woman
    8pm
    New Jersey Performing Arts Center - 1 Center Street, Newark
    Since Celtic Woman's March 2005 American debut on Public Television, this unique, all-female, adult contemporary ensemble have gone on to achieve world renown success. Their spectacular 2013 North American Tour features Celtic Woman performing traditional Irish tunes, timeless pop anthems and inspirational songs, including the return of fan favorites “You Raise Me Up,” “Orinoco Flow,” and many more, all with the signature Celtic Woman sound. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a superb musical experience. Tickets: $75, $45, $20 - can be purchased online.

    Celtic Woman in performance. Credit: Celtic Woman

  • Newark 78th St. Patrick’s Parade 
    9:15am, Memorial Mass and Investiture, St. Patrick's, 91 Washington St, Newark 
    12pm, Reviewing Stand Ceremonies, 
    1pm, Parade begins
    3pm, Post-Parade Reception, Kilkenny's Ale House, 27 Central Ave  Newark
    Newark is the oldest parade in New Jersey, first organized in 1936. A Reviewing Stand Ceremony will feature Irish step dancing, and speeches from the honorees. The parade begins at the Prudential Center, proceeds to Gateway Center, then to the NJ Performing Arts Center, then Military Park, over to St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral and ends at Washington Park. Patrick Dunican has been selected by the Parade Committee as Grand Marshal 2013 and Eileen P. Gilleece, Detective Sergeant First Class with the New Jersey State Police, will serve as the Deputy Grand Marshal. Fifteen charitable-beneficiaries in the Newark area have been designated by Dunican to receive donations from his fundraising efforts. The parade is dedicated to the late Terence “Terry” Pellegrino of the Essex County Police and Fire Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Following the parade, the Newark St. Patrick's Parade Committee will host a reception; tickets include lunch and open bar. Breakfast Tickets: $12, Post-Parade Reception Tickets: $20. For further information, contact Michael D. Byrne at NewarkParade@gmail.com.

    Banner of St. Patrick borne by the Corcoran family, Colors presented by Port Authority Police Department.  Credit: Newark St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee

  • Union County 17th Annual  St. Patrick Parade 
    9am, Mass at St. Patrick's Church, 215 Court St, Elizabeth 
    10am, Reception, Church Hall
    12pm, Reviewing Stands
    1pm, Parade begins, Morris Avenue, Union 
    The Union County Parade Committee was founded in 1995 and the first parade stepped off in 1997 in the Township of Union. Opening ceremonies feature Irish step dancers, bagpipers, and entertainment for the children. This year’s honorees are Grand Marshal Jim Tansey, Chairwoman Kelly Anne Scanlon and Adjutant Harry Capko. The day begins with the Thornstick Mass organized in conjunction with the Elizabeth Ancient Order of Hibernians. Following Mass, there will be a welcoming reception in the church hall. Following festivities at the Reviewing Stand, the parade will step-off and the route will proceed east along Morris Avenue, turn at the Main Reviewing Stand and end at Roosevelt Avenue. The "Kid's Zone" will be also be available at Stuyvesant Avenue, just off Morris Avenue. Two reviewing stands will be available, one at Morris and Stuyvesant Avenues, and the other at Morris and Caldwell Avenues. The 2013 Parade is dedicated to all of those who have been touched by Parkinson's Disease.

    Spectators enjoying the Union County Parade.
    Credit: Union County St. Patrick Parade Committee
     
  • Sussex County 10th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade
    11:30am, Parade begins
    Leading the parade in will be Grand Marshals John and Sue Sullivan and Dawn Delaney. The parade steps off from Spring Street, in Newton, near Stuart Street; it will proceed up Spring Street then turn right onto Moran Street to Memory Park. Entrants will feature nearly 100 units, including: New Jersey State, County and Local Dignitaries, bands, floats, police, fire and other emergency response vehicles, military personnel and their vehicles, girl and boy scouts, local schools, antique vehicles, beauty queens and Irish step dancers. The award winning Lt. R.A. Madden VFW Post 10152 of Ogdensburg, will be the parade Honor Guard. The parade attendance has been growing with the years, and several thousand spectators usually join to watch the festivities. For further information, call Dennis Harrington at (973) 827-9179 or visit their website.

    A crowd gathers near Spring and Moran Streets.  Credits: Jennifer Jean Miller
     
  • The Irish Tenors
    8pm                       
    The State Theatre Regional Arts Center, 15 Livingston Avenue. New Brunswick
    Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns, and Ronan Tynan have been touring together as The Irish Tenors since 1998; they continue now with their “Let's Celebrate Ireland Tour.” They are well known from their PBS specials for performing songs as “My Heart Will Go On,” “Fairytale Of New York,” along with the traditional Irish tunes “Danny Boy,” “Whiskey in the Jar” and “Fields Of Athenry.” Tickets: $97, $87, $67, $57, $32 can be purchased through the Theatre’s website.

    The Irish Tenors   Credit: The Irish Tenors

  • Bayonne 33rd Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
    10am, Mass, St. Henry's Church, 29th Street and Avenue C, Bayonne
    1pm, Parade begins
    Following a Feast Day Mass, the parade will kick-off at 5th Street and Broadway. The parade route will go up Broadway to 40th Street, then west on 40th Street to the Reviewing Stand, which will be located at the entrance to Gregg-Bayonne County Park, between 40th and 41st Streets on Avenue C.

  • Keyport 8th Annual Saint Patrick's Parade 
    1pm, Parade begins
    3pm, Post-Parade Celebration, McDonagh’s Pub, 2 West Front Street, Keyport
    3pm to 5pm Post-Parade Entertainment, West Front Street, Keyport 
    The Keyport Fire Department organizes the parade which this year honors Grand Marshal Harry Aumack, II. and Deputy Grand Marshal Chris Petrizzo. The parade route begins at St. Joseph’s Church on Maple Place, then moves over to West Fourth Street, continues on Maple Place to Broad Street, heads down to West Front Street and ends at Fireman’s Park. Participating in the parade will be the Keyport Fire Department, Keyport Bayfront Business Cooperative (KBBC), Keyport Mayor and Council, Keyport First Aid Squad and Cadets, Keyport OEM and CERT, Union Beach EMS, Union Beach Fire Department, Union Beach Mayor and Council, Keyport Indians, Democratic Club, Keyport Recreation, Explorers, Republican Party, Kiwanis Club, The Elks, Knights of Columbus, The Masons, Keyport Historical Society, Keyport Kids, Keyport Central School Band and the Girl Scouts.  There will be 5 Pipe Bands marching: American Celts Pipes and Drums of Keyport, Col D.B. Kelly Pipes and Drums of South Amboy, St. Brendan the Navigator Pipes and Drums, Pipes and Drums of Jersey Shore Shillelagh’s, The Guard Pipes and Drums. After the parade, a few of the bands will return to McDonagh’s Pub for your listening pleasure. From 3pm to 5pm, the KBBC will host an Irish dance exhibition from the Shea-Jennings School of Irish Dance as well as strolling Irish musician students from the Claddagh na nGael branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann.”Join us in Keyport on Saturday, March 23rd and show your Irish Pride. Don’t forget to wear your green! Remember, everyone is Irish at the Keyport St. Patrick’s Parade.” For further information, contact Hank Young at (732) 856-0483 or email him at  hank75kfd@aol.com

    Residents line up to view the Keyport annual parade.
    Credit: Pat Noble, Aberdeen NJ Life  / aberdeennjlife.blogspot.com
     
  • Highlands 11th Annual St. Patrick's Parade
    2pm, Parade begins
    2013 honorees are Grand Marshal Rebecca Kane and Deputy Grand Marshal Dave Parker. This year’s parade is dedicated to the First Responders. The parade will begin at Huddy Park, with hundreds scheduled to march along a one-mile stretch of Bay Avenue.

  • Keansburg 7th Annual St. Patricks Parade
    1pm, Parade begins
    The Keansbury Parade Committee commented, “Hurricane Sandy of 2012 had had a huge impact on The Borough of Keansburg and its residents. Many of their homes have been damaged or even destroyed. Many families have been displaced; they are not in the homes that they treasured. It has been a slow rebuilding process for many residents and businesses. In these times of struggle and determination, our parade committee has decided to move forward with our 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It is through our determination and strength the Mayor and Council has stated that “the parade must go on; we must show and relate to the homeowners and businesses that Hurricane Sandy didn’t defeat our spirits, It’s been a handful putting the parade together. This year is hard with people still not back in there home. But we must show people that Sandy did not take our hearts.”

    The parade will start at Raritan and Beachway, proceed to Carr Avenue,  to Center Ave, to Main Street, to Church Street and end at Jackie Keelens Bar. 
     
  • St. Baldrick’s 4th Annual Event for Cancer Research
    2:30pm
    Irish Cottage Inn, 602 State Route 23, Franklin
    Are you up to having your head shaved for charity? Mary Harrington and her husband Dennis will be two of many getting their hair shaved off to help raise funds for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. St. Baldrick’s is worldwide; 82 percent of all proceeds from this event will go direct to research, 16 percent to Fundraising  and 2 percent to Management. You can support Mary and Dennis in their efforts (respectively, Treasurer and Chairman of the Sussex County St. Patrick’s Day Committee),  by donating online at this link and putting in their team name 2 heads R better than 1 in the search box. They will be shaving their heads along with many more people at the gathering. The Irish Cottage Inn is sponsoring this St. Baldrick’s event for the fourth year and they hope to raise more than $25,000. For further information contact Mary at caseyharrington1950@gmail.com.
    St. Baldrick’s 2012  Credit: The Irish Cottage Inn

 


 

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