On Saturday March 9th at 11 a.m., one of the greatest Irish-American traditions on the Cape will kick off, this year with the theme of “Myths & Music.” Here are a few tips for attending the 19th annual Cape Cod St. Patrick’s Day parade. These can be used by first-timers, experienced parade-goers, and even seasoned Cape Codders!
The parade begins at the intersection of Route 28 and Long Pond Road. It goes about two miles through downtown Yarmouth towards Hyannis and ends at Higgins Crowell Road. There really isn’t a bad place to be along the route—you’ll be able to see no matter where you are.
TIP #1
Wear comfy *green* layers. It’s March on Cape Cod, which means the weather is about as unpredictable as it gets. Last year it was misty enough that we all went home soaked. But the year before it was in the 50s and sunny. You’ll also likely have to walk a bit from where you park so don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes.
TIP #2
Bring snacks. It takes about two hours for the entire parade to pass by, which means you’ll want to have some snacks and water bottles ready to go. A reminder that it’s two hours from when you see the first float, not two hours from 11 a.m.
TIP #3
Catch those goodies! Bring a bag for you and your kids to keep the goodies they get from the floats that pass by. Organizers have gone back and forth on whether floats could have goodies (like candy or trinkets) over the years. Last year they landed on handing things out to the crowd instead of throwing them from the floats.
TIP #4
Bring chairs. I would especially stress this if you have young kids that are too old for a stroller, but young enough to be able to stand for that long.
TIP #5
Parking. I’m sure everyone has their own opinion about how and where to park, but I would recommend parking in the parking lot of Scally’s Irish Ale House. Then walk down Rt. 28 to find a good spot to stand or sit. Scally’s is also an easy place to bring the kiddos for lunch following the parade. Just a reminder that road closures may affect where you can get to and when.
TIP #6
HAVE FUN! The Cape Cod St. Patrick’s Day parade is truly one of the highlights of the season. It’s something that my family looks forward to every year. There will be music, creative floats, and lots of smiles and happy faces.
You can check out the parade’s website for more information. If you happen to be around Boston for St. Patrick’s Day, you can check out Bostonmoms.com’s recently updated guide to family-friendly Irish pubs!
ERIN GO BRAGH!
