The History of St. Patrick’s Day in Holyoke, MA

St. Patrick’s Day is a beloved holiday celebrated worldwide, but did you know that Holyoke, Massachusetts has one of the richest St. Patrick’s Day traditions in the United States? Home to one of the oldest and largest parades in the country, Holyoke’s annual celebration is a testament to its deep Irish heritage.

From the first parade in 1852 to today’s grand festivities, let’s explore how Holyoke has honored St. Patrick’s Day for over a century.

Sen. John F. Kennedy at the 1958 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade in front of Holyoke City Hall.

The First Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The first Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade took place in 1852, making it one of the oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S.. It was organized by Irish immigrants who settled in Holyoke and wanted to honor their heritage and culture. The parade was a success and quickly became an annual tradition.

How Holyoke Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day Today

Over the years, the parade has grown in size and reputation. Today, the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest in the country, attracting thousands of spectators each year. Key highlights of the celebration include:

• Irish Dance Groups: Traditional Irish step dancers from across the region perform.
• Marching Bands: Local and visiting bands provide live music along the parade route.
• Community Organizations: Schools, businesses, and cultural groups join in the festivities.

Other St. Patrick’s Day Events in Holyoke

In addition to the parade, Holyoke hosts several St. Patrick’s Day events, including:

• Shamrock 5K Road Race: A popular annual race through the city’s streets.
• Traditional Irish Breakfast: Featuring classic Irish fare such as black pudding, soda bread, and tea.
• Live Music & Entertainment: Irish bands, performers, and community events add to the festivities.

The Greening of the Canals: A Unique Holyoke Tradition

One of Holyoke’s most unique traditions is the Greening of the Canals. Started in the 1960s, this event sees the city’s historic canals dyed green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Taking place the week before the parade, it’s a must-see event that sets the festive tone for the holiday.

Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade montage from 1973. Image: Wikipedia

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Holyoke with Canna Provisions

As a city with strong Irish roots, Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a can’t-miss event. Whether you’re attending the parade, running in the Shamrock 5K, or enjoying the Greening of the Canals, make sure to elevate your experience with the best cannabis in the Pioneer Valley.

Stop by Canna Provisions Holyoke at 380 Dwight Street in the historic Hampden Paper Mill. As a multi-award-winning, woman-led dispensary, we offer the best selection of cannabis products for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Shop Ahead

Where to Buy Cannabis in Holyoke During St. Patrick’s Day Weekend?

Before heading to the parade, road race, or Francie’s Tavern, visit Canna Provisions Holyoke for top-tier craft cannabis. Be it the best high testing flower like some Chem D, the Budtender’s Choice for Massachusetts for the second year in a row for the Leafly Budtender’s Choice awards, a range of the best edibles for sex (hey, it’s a holiday after all), or even shopping cannabis tinctures and concentrates to use in making a batch of your own edbiles like DIY cannabis infused caramel pretzel crunch bars. let alone the THC drinks, cannabis accessories and merch, Canna Provisions Holyoke is the most award-winning recreational dispensary in Holyoke for a reason!

• Location: 380 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA 01040
• Hours: Open daily
• Products: Premium flower, Smash Hits exclusives with Chemdog, high testing pre-rolls, strongest edibles, top vape carts in Massachusetts, and more

Tip: Shop ahead and order online for easy pickup before the weekend crowds hit!

Join Canna Provisions for the Ultimate Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Experience

From Marshal Mania to the Road Race, Francie’s parties, and the legendary parade, Holyoke is the place to be this St. Patrick’s Day—and Canna Provisions is proud to be part of the celebration.

For the full list of Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day events, visit the official parade website.