Atlanta’s Family-Friendly Event!
Atlanta’s St. Patrick’s parade – started by the city’s Hibernian Benevolent Society (a Catholic and Protestant fraternal organization) – dates back to 1858, making it one of the country’s oldest.
The parade is under the auspices of the Irish Network Atlanta and is following in the footsteps of the Irish Networks that have been established in 20+ cities across the US, and was proud to officially launch the 20th chapter in March 2016. It’s aim is to connect Irish-born and Irish American professionals and those who have an interest in Ireland within the Atlanta metro and surrounding areas; to promote other Irish organizations, especially those organizations with charitable status. IN-Atlanta aims to harness the energy and talents of the Irish Diaspora in the US, and provide a forum where individuals can network, connect, foster relationships and contribute to the Irish community in areas such as Irish heritage, culture, economics, sport and charitable organizations.
Among the goals of the group are the education of the public about the significant contributions made by the Irish to Atlanta, the South and the United States. Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Participation in the parade is not just an “Irish thing”. The parade attracts individuals and groups from around the city and the South including clowns, floats, bands, Bagpipe & Drum Corps, children, dancers, drill teams, and more. All groups are encouraged to participate as long as their unit is appropriate for a “family” event. The emphasis is on children and families in celebration of all of Atlanta’s diverse backgrounds on a day when “everybody is Irish.”