State Street was awash in green today as Erie kicked off its Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations. You could feel the energy downtown long before the parade even stepped off, as folks of all ages bundled in layers of green and watched a variety of floats pass by.
For many, this is a chance to be part of something that feels big.
“We get to see each other outside of school, especially because everybody lives in different places and stuff like that. So we really just get to see each other at things like this.”
Organizers say that kind of loyalty is exactly what keeps the parade growing. They told me they see the same families year after year — and plenty of new faces too — all showing up for the same reason: it brings the community together.
“It’s amazing to see everyone come together.”
Right there in the streets, you could feel the fun energy as the community gathered — the cheering, the music, and the flocks of green moving from block to block. It’s a tradition people embrace, no matter what the weather brings.
That energy carried all the way down the route, from marching bands and dancers to local groups who say this is their chance to bring a little extra joy to the city. Even with the chill, people stayed put, waving, laughing, and soaking in every moment.
Organizers say they’re hoping the crowds stay just as lively — and just as green — for years to come.