New Yorkers and visitors from all over the globe lined Manhattan's Fifth Avenue a dozen deep for the world's oldest and largest St. Patrick's Day parade Wednesday, as crowds gathered along sun-warmed routes in Dublin and cities around the U.S. to mark the holiday. (WPIX-TV / March 17, 2010) |
NEW YORK (WPIX)—
New York's St. Patrick's Day Parade kicked off on Fifth Avenue Wednesday with New York Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly as the grand marshal.The parade began at 11 a.m. at 44th Street and will come to a close at 86th Street and Fifth Avenue.
This year's celebration featured New York's famous "Fighting 69th," whose history stretches to the U.S. Civil War. It was part of the Union Army's so-called "Irish Brigade," made up largely of Irish immigrants from New York City.
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Gov. David Paterson and Mayor Michael Bloomberg were among the officials who attended a Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral before the midday parade Wednesday.
Meanwhile, NYPD officials say extra officers will be on hand at the annual celebration, maintaining order and inspecting revelers for alcohol possession along the parade route.
The parade was first held on March 17, 1762 in honor of the patron saint of Ireland and celebrates Irish faith and culture.
For more information, visit the St. Patrick's Day parade website.
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