Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade Adjusts Start Time to Curb Issues Amid Safety Concerns

Kiss me, I’m Irish! But for many revelers at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Boston, a reminder to behave is just as important.

In an effort to reduce incidents of unruliness and to foster a more family-friendly atmosphere, city officials have announced that this year’s iconic South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade will commence earlier than in previous years. Set to begin at 11:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, March 16, the parade is scheduled to kick off an hour-and-a-half earlier than in past celebrations.

Aiming for Better Conduct

Boston officials are optimistic that the earlier start time will help curb what they refer to as “tomfoolery” among attendees. State Senator Nick Collins emphasized the need for reform after last year’s parade saw regrettable moments that officials wish to avoid in 2024. Collins stated in a message to local media that the earlier start aims to manage the atmosphere surrounding the event more effectively.

“The parade will be starting earlier this year in an attempt to get a better handle on the tomfoolery,” Collins said. “Last year, there were regrettable moments at the parade that we don’t want to see repeated this time around.”

Calls for Respectful Revelry

City Councilor Ed Flynn also voiced concerns about last year’s behavior, urging attendees to abide by the golden rule, treating the surrounding community with respect. Flynn, a retired U.S. Navy veteran, underscored that visitors should refrain from actions they wouldn’t consider doing in their own hometowns.

“Operate under the golden rule, and if you wouldn’t do it back home – don’t do it here,” Flynn advised.

Police to Monitor Conduct

At a recent press conference, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox reiterated this message. He called on all attendees to treat the event and its surrounding neighborhood with kindness and respect.

“We ask anyone coming to treat this event, and the neighborhood, as if it was your home,” Commissioner Cox stated. “Boston is a welcoming city, but we do not welcome unruly and unlawful behavior.”

Cox assured the public that the parade would uphold its family-friendly intent. He made it clear that the festivities are not designed to be a drinking fest, urging all participants to maintain decorum during the event.

Regulations on Alcohol Sales

To uphold the parade’s family-friendly environment, Commissioner Cox announced some new regulations on alcohol sales. Liquor stores in South Boston will close at 4 p.m., while taverns and restaurants will cease to admit patrons at 6 p.m. and stop serving alcohol by 7 p.m. These measures aim to reduce excessive drinking and ensure a safe experience for all participants.

Advice for Families

In light of recent incidents that marred last year’s celebration, Cox urged parents to accompany their children and teenagers during the festivities or discourage them from attending altogether.

“It’s not Mardi Gras, and it’s not meant to be that way,” remarked James Hooley, Boston’s Emergency Medical Services Chief, emphasizing the importance of safety during the parade.

A Longstanding Tradition

Recognized as one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the United States, South Boston’s event is expected to draw significant crowds again this year. Last year’s parade attracted about one million attendees. Unfortunately, it also saw numerous disturbances involving intoxicated individuals, leading to arrests.

Local media reported that the previous year’s parade became chaotic, featuring incidents of violence and public disturbances such as beer cans thrown at marchers and individuals climbing rooftops. These alarming occurrences prompted officials to take immediate action for the upcoming celebration.

Invitation for Courtesy

City officials, including Councilor Flynn, have appealed to guests to show common courtesy and respect for the local residents, military families, and first responders prior to and during the parade. Flynn emphasized the importance of honoring the history of the occasion, which coincides with Evacuation Day, commemorating the British troops’ departure from Boston on March 17, 1776.

As Boston prepares for another St. Patrick’s Day celebration, officials hope that the adjustments to the parade will enhance safety and respect among all participants, fostering a spirit of community and celebration that aligns with the holiday’s true essence.