The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the largest on the Grand Strand with more than 100 parade entries and a long history of fun. Masses of people line Main Street each year to get a glimpse of this parade. It starts at 9, but it’s good to be set up with your fellow parade-viewers by 8:30 a.m. The parade route and direction will be the same as in 2024, starting on Ocean Boulevard and ending at Ye Olde Kings Hwy. For those who can’t make the parade in person, it will be broadcast LIVE on CW21. After the parade, the party continues with the street festival. Three stages of live entertainment will keep you in the Irish spirit all day. Expect Irish Pipe Bands, Irish Dancers, and many more live performances. Over 120 vendors will display their crafts. Food vendors and Main Street businesses will have a variety of Irish treats and festival food favorites for everyone to enjoy. Show off your love of all things Irish by competing in the 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival Leprechaun Contest. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity, appearance, enthusiasm and energy. Also, there’s the funny Shepherd’s Piet Eating Contest! First to clear their plate (without using their hands) wins a plaque and gift card. Main Street/Ocean Blvd. Saturday, 9 am-4 pm Free admission/parking. (843) 280-5570, www.nmb.us