The 61st Annual Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade took place today, March 23, 2025, in Pearl River, New York. As one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the state, it drew an estimated crowd of 100,000 people, all eager to celebrate Irish heritage and community pride.
The parade kicked off at 1:30 PM from the Pfizer parking lot on Middletown Road and made its way through East Crooked Hill Road, North Middletown Road, East Central Avenue, and South Main Street, wrapping up near the Pearl River Post Office. Streets were packed with spectators enjoying colorful floats, pipe bands, Irish dance groups, veterans’ organizations, and local schools marching in the procession.
This year’s Grand Marshal was John McGowan, a lifelong Pearl River resident, attorney, and former New York State Assemblyman. His selection held personal meaning—his father passed away on parade day in 1995. Reflecting on the event, McGowan said, “It doesn’t matter what your background is, what your faith is. We celebrate as one community.”
Also honored during the event was The Gracie Rose, a beloved local restaurant, recognized as Businesspeople of the Year. Their acknowledgment underscored the parade’s strong ties to local businesses and community service.
The Rockland County Ancient Order of Hibernians has organized the parade since 1963. Initially rotating locations throughout the county, it found its permanent home in Pearl River in 1974. It has since grown into a massive celebration of Irish-American culture and pride.
To ensure safety, the Orangetown Highway Department implemented new security measures, including heavy barricades and vehicle blockades at key intersections. Parade-goers were also reminded to follow local ordinances, including parking rules and no open container laws, to keep the event safe and family-friendly.
Today’s parade once again proved that Pearl River knows how to come together—not just to celebrate Irish heritage, but to strengthen the bonds of community. Regardless of background, beliefs, or political views, families lined the streets side by side, waving flags, cheering on marchers, and enjoying a day that brings everyone together. It’s a reminder that tradition and unity can still take center stage.
More: Rockland County News
Mathew Alvarez joined Rockland Daily News as a reporter in March 2020, but he’s no stranger to Rockland County. He grew up in New City and graduated from Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media.
