With the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Old Forge just a week away, chairmen Chip Kiefer and Tim Foley want to remind revelers that there are many ways to participate in the iconic event.
All are welcome to march in—or simply observe—the Friday, March 14 parade that will commence at 5 p.m. from Keyes Pancake House following a special blessing by Pastor Lawrence Bartel and Father Shane Lynch.
The parade will be led by Grand Marshals Ron and Eileen Hamlin of Remsen, parents of Olympic bronze medal winner in the single luge, Erin Hamlin.
Kiefer said Erin is scheduled to compete in Lake Placid the next day, so there is a strong possibility that she will be joining her parents.
The parade will proceed up Main Street to the Old Forge Fire Hall where the Irish Stew Contest will be held.
Area restaurants are invited to cook up their favorite stew for sampling and a chance to win the Irish Traveling Trophy to display at their establishment. Stews can be dropped off at the Fire Hall between 4 and 5:30 p.m. on Friday.
Foley is also seeking dogs and their owners to march with the local Irish Setter Club.
“The club does not discriminate against other breeds. Just as all humans are Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, so are canines. If your dog isn’t doing anything that day, just bring it along and become part of the fun,” he said.
Parade participants are asked to line-up by 4:45 p.m.
For more information or to join in the parade, contact Chip Kiefer at (315) 369-3811.