Boston Aims to Curb St. Patrick’s Day Parade Shenanigans with Earlier Start
Boston officials are taking proactive steps to ensure a more family-friendly and respectful atmosphere at this year’s South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade, a beloved tradition known for its vibrant celebration of Irish heritage and local history. In an effort to mitigate the unruly behavior witnessed in previous years, particularly involving excessive alcohol consumption and disruptive incidents, the parade’s start time has been moved forward by an hour and a half. The two-for-one celebration, honoring both St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day, is now scheduled to commence at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 16th.
The decision to advance the parade’s commencement time reflects a concerted effort by city officials and parade organizers to preemptively address potential issues associated with excessive drinking and the resulting "tomfoolery," as described by state Sen. Nick Collins. Collins, speaking to the Dorchester Reporter, emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences, stating, "The parade will be starting earlier this year in an attempt to get a better handle on the tomfoolery. Last year, there were regrettable moments at the parade that we don’t want to see repeated this time around."
Echoing this sentiment, City Councilor Ed Flynn, a retired U.S. Navy veteran who served during Operation Enduring Freedom, has been a vocal advocate for reforms aimed at preserving the parade’s positive spirit and ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. Flynn urged revelers to exercise restraint and respect, stating, "Operate under the golden rule, and if you wouldn’t do it back home – don’t do it here."
At a recent press conference, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox reinforced the city’s commitment to maintaining order and fostering a welcoming, yet responsible, atmosphere. "We ask anyone coming to treat this event, and the neighborhood, as if it was your home," Cox declared. "Boston is a welcoming city, but the fact is, we do not welcome unruly and unlawful behavior. This is a family-friendly event. This is not a drinking fest."
In addition to the earlier start time, the city has implemented further measures to discourage excessive alcohol consumption and promote responsible behavior. Commissioner Cox announced that all liquor stores in South Boston will close at 4 p.m., while taverns and restaurants will cease admitting patrons at 6 p.m. and will stop serving alcohol at 7 p.m. These restrictions are intended to curb late-night revelry and minimize the potential for alcohol-fueled disturbances.
Recognizing the importance of parental supervision, Cox also advised parents to ensure that children and teenagers are accompanied by adults or, ideally, refrain from attending the parade altogether. His message underscored the city’s desire to maintain a safe and appropriate environment for all age groups.
Boston EMS Chief James Hooley further emphasized the importance of viewing the St. Patrick’s Day parade as a community celebration, rather than an occasion for unrestrained partying. "It’s not Mardi Gras, and it’s not meant to be that way," Hooley stated, drawing a clear distinction between the family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day event and the often-boisterous atmosphere of Mardi Gras celebrations.
South Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day parade holds significant historical and cultural importance, attracting approximately one million people each year. The parade commemorates both St. Patrick’s Day, a celebration of Irish heritage and culture, and Evacuation Day, which marks the departure of British troops from Boston on March 17, 1776, a pivotal moment in American history.
According to Chief Hooley, last year’s parade experienced challenges related to disruptive behavior, particularly among "young, intoxicated people" who engaged in fighting and other inappropriate activities. Multiple arrests were made, and local news outlets reported incidents of violence, assaults that were captured on video and shared widely, individuals climbing onto rooftops without proper decking, and parade marchers being targeted with thrown beer cans.
In light of these incidents, city officials are determined to prevent a recurrence of such behavior and ensure that this year’s parade remains a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Councilor Flynn appealed to visitors to show respect for the community and its traditions, stating, "If you are a guest, or in South Boston for the Evacuation Day Parade – show some common courtesy and respect for the residents, for our veterans and military families, our dedicated first responders, and our history."
The city’s efforts to curb unruly behavior at the St. Patrick’s Day parade reflect a broader commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors. By implementing proactive measures such as the earlier start time, alcohol restrictions, and increased law enforcement presence, Boston officials hope to strike a balance between celebrating Irish heritage and fostering a responsible and respectful environment for everyone.
