Lower Burrell hosts largest St. Patrick's Day parade to date
The hundreds of spectators lining Leechburg Road on Saturday for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade were treated to a bigger-than-ever green scene.
“They do it up,” said Lower Burrell resident Jacquie Springer, who arrived in tow with several youngsters. “It’s a great reason to get the kids out of the house, and parades are happy.”
In its third year, co-organizers Leslie Uncapher Zellers and Terry McClain created the event during the pandemic in an effort to boost and promote community spirit.
“We started during the lockdown when no one was having events,” Zellers said. “We thought it would be a safe, socially distanced way for the community to gather and celebrate after being isolated so long.
“This year is our largest parade ever.”
City officials sanctioned the parade in 2021 and made it an official annual event this year.
“We do this because we’re dedicated to the communities in which we live and work, and we know the value of having positive activities and events that everyone can enjoy,” Zellers said.
The parade kicked off at 11 a.m. and lasted about 30 minutes. It was led by the honor guard from American Legion Post 868.
Dozens of firetrucks, lights flashing and horns beeping, delighted young children eager to grab the candy being lobbed by parade participants.
“I want the Tootsie Rolls! I love the candy!” said Avery Stimel, 5, of Lower Burrell.
“It’s just a nice thing to do,” said her mother, Stacy Stimel. “… Lower Burrell loves their parades.” In addition to Lower Burrell’s own, among the other participating fire companies and first responders were those from Arnold, New Kensington, Brackenridge, Logans Ferry, and Plum.
“It’s so rewarding to see people from different backgrounds and organizations come together and support the Lower Burrell community,” Zellers said. “We’ve expanded to include many from neighboring towns.”
Unlike last year’s parade temperatures, which were below freezing, this year parade-goers experienced sunny skies and temps hovering around 40 degrees.
Participants included a walking hotdog, a group of about 20 side-by-side cars, a school bus, a number of local sports teams, politicians, dancers and Civil War reenactors.
Michelle Baker of Lower Burrell brought her son and the family dog, Harper, who appeared unfazed by the commotion and loud firetrucks.
“We just love this — it’s a sense of community,” Baker said.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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