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Lexington Hosts 10th Annual Shamrock Parade

Crowd celebrating at the Lexington Shamrock Parade

News Summary

On March 9, 2025, Lexington, South Carolina, came alive with the 10th Annual Shamrock Parade, featuring vibrant displays of St. Patrick’s Day spirit. Sponsored by the Lexington County Blowfish, the parade showcased cultural performances, local heroes, and special guests, fostering a sense of community. As residents donned emerald outfits, the event offered an unforgettable experience with floats, music, and festivities that celebrated both Irish culture and local pride.

Lexington Celebrates 10th Annual Shamrock Parade

Lexington, South Carolina, was a kaleidoscope of green on March 9, 2025, as residents came together to celebrate the 10th Annual Shamrock Parade. Even though the skies were overcast, the enthusiasm of the crowd was undeniable. Hundreds of locals donned their best emerald outfits, transforming the streets into a vibrant display of St. Patrick’s Day spirit.

Leading the Festivities

The parade officially kicked off with the Ancient Order of Hibernians leading the vibrant procession down Main Street. Bringing a taste of Irish culture to the heart of Lexington, this organization set the tone for a joyful celebration. What made the event even more special was the appearance of Blowie the Blowfish, the beloved mascot who made two delightful appearances, much to the delight of the kids and the young-at-heart.

Special Guests and Grand Marshals

This year’s parade boasted an exciting lineup of special guests, including none other than Captain America himself, who made a grand entrance on a stunning float curated for the occasion. Accompanying him was Blowie, and together they brought superhero excitement to the festivities.

In a show of community pride, U.S. Representative Joe Wilson joined the fun, alongside the local Lexington County Sheriff’s and Fire departments, showcasing the courage and dedication of local heroism. The melodious tunes of the 282nd Army Band filled the air, enhancing the festive spirit while several Palmetto State pageant winners waved to the cheering crowds from their own beautifully decorated floats.

The Grand Marshal’s Honor

Crowning the event was Maj. General Daryl Hood, the Fork Jackson Commanding General, who served as the Grand Marshal of the parade. His presence added a sense of gravitas and fulfillment of community pride, inspiring many as he led the parade with dignity and honor.

A Special Recognition

This year also featured a unique award for local socialites, as Matt and Michele O’Hara from O’Hara’s Public House were crowned Mister and Misses Shamrock. Their involvement perfectly represented the spirit of Lexington and its friendly community.

Roads and Traffic Advisory

For those planning to attend, local authorities implemented road closures starting at 1:30 p.m. Streets such as West Butler Street, Haygood Street, and parts of Meetze Street were temporarily closed for parade float setup. By 2:45 p.m., preparations were in full swing, with West Main Street officially blocked off to manage the expected crowd.

The parade officially commenced at 3:00 p.m. and was set to wrap up around 4:30 p.m., allowing attendees ample time to enjoy the event. Signs and law enforcement officers were present throughout the area to help smoothly guide traffic and ensure everyone had a safe and enjoyable experience.

Celebration of Community and Joy

As the floats made their way down the carefully planned parade route from Haygood Street down West Main Street/US 1 to North Lake Drive/SC 6, the spirit of togetherness resonated through the streets of Lexington. The 10th Annual Shamrock Parade was not just a tribute to St. Patrick’s Day, but a heartfelt celebration of community, joy, and shared experiences that make Lexington a vibrant place to live.