St. Patrick’s Day Parade is March 16

Originally Published in Porcupine Soup

EAST DURHAM―The East Durham St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee is gearing up to once again paint the town green when the second annual parade marches down State Route 145 on Sunday, March 16.

Last year was the first time in 30 years that the Emerald Isle of the Catskills hosted a St. Patrick’s Day parade and thousands of people came out to celebrate as festive floats, color guards, marching bands, pipes and drums, firetrucks, and more made their way through the hamlet.

“Last year’s parade was hugely successful and we are planning on topping it this year,” organizers say.

The committee has been hard at work for months preparing and on February 22 they hosted the Passing of the Sash Dinner Dance at the Shamrock House. Colleen McGrath Fenlon and Dermot Fenlon, owners of McGrath’s Edgewood Falls, were officially named grand marshals.

Founded 51 years ago by Colleen’s parents, Kathleen and Mattie McGrath, the family-run resort has been a cornerstone of the East Durham community and local Irish culture.

Fr. Henry Reid will be aide to the grand marshals. Mike Hurson will once again serve as master of ceremonies.

Some 180 people attended the dinner, including Assemblyman Chris Tague who presented volunteer Natasha Voisey with a commendation from the Greene County Legislature for her “time and efforts in various capacities for the betterment of the community.” Voisey was also given a special Above and Beyond award from the East Durham St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee.

“It was Natsha's birthday and everyone enthusiastically sang ‘Happy Birthday,’” said Wesslock.