Come “get your happy out” as the Irish idiom goes, during the 34th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival on Saturday, March 16. 

Long a treasured North Myrtle Beach tradition, and sponsored by the city, this free celebration, which attracts crowds of more than 30,000, is one of the largest on the East Coast.

“The street party kicks off with a televised parade featuring over 130 floats, Irish bands and dancers, and lots of surprises!” says Angel Sylvester, special events and program director for the city. “The festival includes three stages of live entertainment covering all genres from Irish, Beach, Rock and R&B.”
 
The parade starts promptly at 9 a.m., but folks are encouraged to set up with their blankets, beach chairs, and golf carts by 8:30 a.m.

The route is the same as in recent years, beginning on Ocean Boulevard and terminating at Kings Highway. An emcee announcing parade participants will be stationed at the entrance of the Horseshoe. Judges will also be there to vote for their “Best” parade entries. 

WPDE personalities Ed Piotrowski, Connor Ingalls, and Jennifer Abney will also bring their celebrity to the parade, which will be broadcast live on CW21. 

The festival itself takes place on Main Street from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.  More than 120 vendors will display their crafts, while food vendors and Main Street businesses will have a variety of Irish treats and festival food favorites for everyone to enjoy! This festival also boasts Leprechaun and Jr. Leprechaun contests. 

“These are a crowd favorite,” explains Sylvester. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, appearance, enthusiasm and energy.  “We had to add a Junior Leprechaun contest because all the babies were getting all the love!” she laughed.

Participants should sign up at the information booth or the Irish Stage before 2 p.m.  Those contests, and a Shepherd’s Pie Eating Contest, will take place at the Irish stage at around 2:30 pm. The first person to clear their plate (without using their hands, of course!) wins a cool plaque and gift card!

St. Patrick's Day Parade
Address: Main St./Ocean Blvd.
Website: nmb.us
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (843) 280-5570