Boston celebrates 250 years with st. patrick's day parade, 17 arrests made
South Boston pulsed with a sea of green Sunday as hundreds of thousands turned out for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, a vibrant celebration of the city's 250th anniversary. The festivities, while joyful, were punctuated by 17 arrests made by the Boston Police Department.
Parade route reversed for anniversary commemoration
The parade, a beloved Boston tradition, took a different turn this year, reversing its route to honor the 250th anniversary of Evacuation Day and address traffic concerns. Starting at Andrew Square instead of its traditional Broadway location, the procession showcased traditional Irish music, dancing, and community spirit. The change also aimed to alleviate congestion, with the parade kicking off at 11:30 a.m. – a second consecutive year for the earlier start.
“What I really enjoy today is seeing people I know who are in the parade that my children grew up with, their kids,” said Kathy Encarnacao of South Boston, reflecting the intergenerational appeal of the event. The atmosphere was infectious, with revelers shouting, dancing, and embracing the day’s traditions. Mayor Michelle Wu acknowledged the historical significance of the day, stating, “There are so many lessons that we still hold from the courage and sacrifice standing up for what’s right and fighting for the future that you know future generations deserve and we’re trying to do that today in Boston.”
Among the crowd, Celtics star Jaylen Brown made an appearance on one of the floats. Fourth-grader Francis Cook, visiting from Texas, was captivated by the floats and characters, particularly a Spiderman performance. Patty Martin, a longtime attendee, summed up the spirit of the day: “Celebrating the traditions of Boston. And wear green, and this is the one day where everyone looks good in green.”
While the parade was largely celebratory, the Boston Police Department confirmed 17 arrests were made, though details regarding the individuals involved remain scarce. The arrests cast a shadow over the otherwise jubilant occasion, raising questions about public intoxication and rowdy behavior. This year’s festivities underscore the complex interplay between tradition and public safety in a city steeped in history and pride.
More details on the 2026 St. Patrick's Day Parade can be found on CBS News Boston.