The streets of Goshen were filled with music, cheers, and a sea of green on Sunday, March 15 as the 49th Annual Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade stepped off along Main Street, drawing large crowds from across Orange County to celebrate Irish heritage and community spirit. The parade is also the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the county.
Organized by the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, the parade has been a beloved regional tradition since 1979, honoring Saint Patrick while showcasing Irish culture, music, and community pride. This year’s Grand Marshal, Brian McCabe, led a procession that reflected nearly five decades of keeping traditions alive.
A celebration of music, tradition, and community
From marching bands to community organizations, participants said the parade is about more than performance—it’s about connection.
Dale, a member of the jazz orchestra “Saints of Swing,” said the group simply loves being part of the celebration. “It’s meaningful because we enjoy being involved in all parades… this is a special day, St. Patrick’s Day. We just love playing parades.”
The band, which dates back to the 1980s, views the event as the start of their performance season. “This is the first parade of the year… we haven’t seen any of the guys in the band for months. So we’re back together… glad to meet our old friends.”
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For Dale, the goal is simple: “We just want the people to have a good time and celebrate Irish tradition… this is like pre-spring—everybody gets out in the community and has a good time.”
Honoring Irish roots through music
For Patrick of the Hudson Valley Regional Police Pipes and Drums, the parade carries deeper cultural meaning. “Because we are all Irish descendants,” he said of the group’s motivation to participate. Their mission is to preserve tradition through music and attire. “By keeping the Irish dress and music alive.”
Still, the spirit of the day remains lighthearted: “Just the camaraderie, the fun… the fantastic atmosphere… just to participate, have fun.”
Joseph Smolinsky of the Claddagh Pipe Band, assistant director and bagpipe instructor, highlighted the importance of authenticity in the band’s performances. “We exclusively play Irish Pipe Band music… rather than many of the bands in the area that play mostly Scottish music.”
Though not Irish himself, he has spent decades immersed in the tradition. “I am Korean… but I played bagpipe for 25 years now.” He encouraged others to get involved: “Join your local Pipe Band… learn some Irish music.”
A tradition passed through generations
For local schools, the parade is both an educational and community-building experience. Deborah Hyseni of the Chester Academy Band highlighted the group’s long-standing participation.
“It’s actually our 50th year… it’s really important for my students to give back to the community.”
She added that the experience helps unify students: “We learn how to play together… it really helps us to come together as a group.”
Despite the band’s diversity, the celebration remains inclusive: “Not all of us are Irish… but it’s nice to honor the tradition… and celebrate with everybody.”
Her message to the community: “Celebrating doesn’t matter if you’re Irish or not… it’s really important that we all come together.”
Strengthening community bonds
Local organizations also used the parade to connect with residents. Members of the Middletown Fire Department marched in solidarity.
“We’re marching in brotherhood and sisterhood… to support the Irish community,” said firefighter Leighton Williams.
He emphasized their ongoing role in the community: “We want the community to know us and know that we are there to help them out in their time of need.”
Spectators echoed similar sentiments about unity and tradition.
Diana, attending for the first time, was struck by the generational impact: “It’s so exciting to see the community come together… these are generations we’re watching right now that are being passed down.”
Longtime resident Margaret called the parade a cornerstone of local life: “It’s such a big thing for the Goshen community… it does a lot for the community, and it’s a great thing.”
A Family Tradition
For many families, attending the parade is a lifelong tradition. Thomas, a Goshen resident, said: “Every year since birth.”
His friend Maeve reflected on the deeper meaning of the event: “It’s impactful to celebrate your heritage… everyone comes out… getting together as a community and as family and friends.”
She added that the parade highlights cultural pride across the region: “It spotlights what everyone’s doing… it’s nice to see people are in touch with their heritage.”
Welcoming spring together
As bands played, dancers performed, and families lined the streets, the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade once again proved to be more than a festive event—it marked the unofficial start of spring and a renewed sense of community.
As one participant summed it up: “We just want people to have a good time.”
After 49 years, that spirit continues to bring Orange County together—one parade at a time.
