BUFFALO, N.Y. — ​For the second straight year, St. Patrick’s Day weekend looks a little different in Western New York.

While this weekend will not be filled with crowds dressed in green, there is still plenty of Irish pride flying around.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Councilman Christopher Scanlon hosted a raising of the Irish flag Saturday morning in Niagara Square.

Leaders are urging Western New Yorkers to celebrate responsibly and to help businesses that normally thrive this time of year.

"Clothing shops are open, bars and restaurants will be offering tradition fare and music all week, socially distanced and in responsible nature. The Buffalo Irish Center and other traditional dance academies will be hosting activities virtually that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. So I urge everyone to get out and support these businesses that rely so heavily on this time of year sales," Scanlon said.    

Delaware Avenue’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is scheduled to return on Sunday, March 20, 2022.