The streets of Olde Town Arvada were awash with green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, as the community came together for a day filled with Irish cuisine, live music, and festive vendors. This year’s celebration, held on March 15, saw the traditional specials of corned beef, shepherd’s pie, Guinness, and whiskey drinks paired with a sprawling collection of vendors and a few live music performances. The musical lineup featured Centennial State Pipes and Drums, Stomp Street Heist, and West of Fennario, who played both traditional Irish folk songs and a slew of timely covers.
Olde Town Business Improvement District Executive Director Joe Hengstler noted that St. Patrick’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for the historical district. “We love hosting this event year after year, and it is always great to see so many people come out and celebrate,” Hengstler said. “Our St. Patrick’s Day Festival is historically the busiest Saturday of the year in Olde Town. Judging by the crowd, I think that was the case this past Saturday, as well.”
He credited the local businesses for their efforts in creating a festive atmosphere. “The businesses of Olde Town do such a great job with various food and drink specials and really getting into the spirit of the day,” Hengstler continued. “Above all, it really is a privilege to be able to present events like these and see the community come out and take part.”
In addition to Olde Town's vibrant festivities, St. John's University also contributed to the celebratory spirit in New York City. On March 17, more than 130 St. John’s University members participated in the 2025 New York City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade—the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world. The lively St. John’s delegation, comprised of students, faculty, staff, and alumni, marched up Fifth Avenue, greeted by enthusiastic shouts of “Go, Johnnies!”
Brian Browne, Associate Vice President of University Communications and Public Affairs, coordinated the university’s participation. He expressed the excitement of the event: “St. John’s always gets a great reception from parade spectators, but this year even more so given the success of the Men’s Basketball team—New York City’s team—winning the BIG EAST Tournament Championship.”
The parade route spans from East 44th Street to East 79th Street, steeped in history that began on March 17, 1762, 14 years before the Declaration of Independence. The iconic parade draws approximately 150,000 marchers and usually attracts almost two million spectators.
As the event kicked off, a special St. John’s alumni brunch was held at Stout New York City, where attendees enjoyed Irish food and music. Stout, owned by Martin Whelan, whose ties to the university are strong, served as the official bar for St. John’s Athletics. “It’s been a busy weekend, but I want to be here with my St. John’s family,” Whelan said regarding his commitment to the festivities.
The St. John’s Kickline team, the Stormettes, made their debut at this year’s event, adding energy to the parade with their high-stepping performances. Coach Stephanie DiPrima expressed her enthusiasm, noting, “What a fantastic experience! We plan to be back next year.”
Bagpiper Robert P. Lynch, an adjunct professor at the university and supporter of the parade, marched proudly along with Johnnies. Sharing the moment, he stated, “It’s great to be part of both institutions!”
In Savannah, Georgia, following St. Patrick's Day, city officials put emphasis on keeping celebrations green and clean. Cleanup efforts began hours after the parade, with several squares in the festival area transformed from celebration sites back into peaceful public spaces. Street sweepers and cleaning crews worked diligently overnight to ensure the beautiful plant life along the routes remained unharmed. Resident Dallas Burgess commended the efforts, saying, “The city does a good job of protecting all of that.”
Chatham EMS officials reported a busy weekend as they responded to 71 calls in the festival area, with 35 people needing to go to the hospital from March 14 to March 18. This highlights the need for safety even amid the festive spirit.
Meanwhile, in Bangor, Maine, Paddy Murphy's pub became a local hotspot, selling out all of its Guinness kegs during the St. Patrick's Day festivities on March 17. The pub saw over 200 patrons enjoying the day, reveling in the holiday spirit. They have promised to be well-stocked for future celebrations, inviting patrons for more events following the holiday.
Across the nation, communities united to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, fostering a spirit of inclusion through vibrant events and celebrations. From the bustling streets of New York City to local pubs and festivities in Colorado, the day served as a sharp reminder of the communal ties that bind us, no matter where we are.
