By ADRIANA ALFARO
They say there are only two kinds of people in the world: the Irish, and those who wish they were.
However, in Sea Isle City, everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, according to Mayor Leonard Desiderio.
This year, Sea Isle City’s 31st annual St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held on March 11 at 3:30 p.m. Fully sponsored by Mayor Desiderio and his family, the event brings together thousands of people in a march that spans 20 blocks starting at Kix-McNutley’s on 63rd Street and Landis Avenue.
It is the oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Cape May County and Sea Isle residents make it a tradition to attend and have the opportunity to flaunt their best green ensemble.
“I always believed that parades helped bring a community together,” Desiderio said in an interview Monday.
The parade goes on in rain or snow. In the past, attendees have marched through bitter weather, but are kept warm by a supportive community.
The Desiderio family also sponsors the Italian-American Heritage parade, which is normally held in October. The festival features food, opera singing, a cannoli-eating contest and vendors. Although it will not be held this October, Desiderio says he is looking to bring it back in the coming year.
Originally, the event was held on Columbus Day weekend, but has since been scheduled a week in advance to avoid clashing with significant tourist attractions along the coast.
Desiderio also shared that the St. Patrick’s Day parade was originally held on a weekday, but also adjusted the date to the following weekend to allow second homeowners and visitors from out of town to participate in the festivities.
“People start asking me about the St. Patrick’s Day parade in January. After thirty-one years, you look forward to it. Everyone is excited to dress up in green. They have their banners and watch from their decks. It’s a great time,” Desiderio said.
An awards ceremony will be held for best dressed at 2 p.m. Afterward, guests are welcome to a buffet of corned beef, cabbage, ham and soda bread.
The St. Patrick’s Day parade has grown over the years and continues to grow thanks to the support of the Desiderio family and the Sea Isle Community.
For more information on upcoming events in Sea Isle City, go to visitsicnj.com
