LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - The Irish Day Parade is a long-standing tradition in Lima, now in its 31st year of celebrating the community's Irish heritage and beyond. Some have been involved for decades and are excited to continue the tradition.
The Irish Day Parade is a long-standing tradition in Lima, now in its 31st year of celebrating the community's Irish heritage and beyond.
"I've been with the parade since the beginning, but our family has had a float for 30 years. That's the reason why this year we're celebrating the 30th anniversary with 30 grand memories. We have family in from all over the country, actually. Some from Florida, North Carolina, and Michigan. It's kind've like our family reunion. It's just a great day to be Irish. It's a great day to be in Lima, and we're just excited for the whole community," said Kelly Stolly, committee member with the Irish Day Parade.
"The first one we had was 21 degrees, and I said, 'Well, nobody's going to be out.' First person we saw was a guy with a baby sitting in his arm. Everybody wants to stop that cabin fever," said Mike Casey with the Casey family float.
Although the weather doesn't always cooperate, it was perfect for parents, children, and even some furry friends to get out, grab some free candy, and enjoy the festivities.
This year's honorable grand marshal, Patricia Saine, was nominated by her family members for all she does in the community.
"Well, it's kind've the start of Spring. We always say this is the kickoff to nice weather. A lot of times we don't get that nice weather, but it's the kickoff to Spring. It's a great day for families. If you just look around at these families, it's a family reunion for my family; we've got the Brennans right here and the Caseys. It's amazing for the North End Irish and for all the Irish people in town, and it's great for the city of Lima," said Darby Bourk, Chair of the Irish Day Parade committee.
For many, the Irish Day Parade is all about family. This year's honorable grand marshal, Patricia Saine, was nominated by her family members for all she does in the community. She was thrilled they all came to march with her.
"My niece brought me flowers; she came from Springfield. My sister came from Springfield with her daughter. I think it's wonderful, because they all came from out of town. So it was wonderful that they're all here," said Patricia Saine, grand marshal of the Irish Day Parade.
"It has been so much fun. We decorated the float last week. We've got probably a good 50 people here to walk behind her, all family. It's a lot of fun," said Becky Saine, Patricia's daughter-in-law.
With 31 years of the Irish Day Parade in the books, one thing they all have in common is having a good time.
