A sea of green, instruments and some kilts can really only mean one thing -- St. Patrick’s Day parades are back in Albany.

“We try to rile the crowd up, get everybody pumped and roaring,” Don McMahon, a participant in the North Albany Limerick Parade, said. “We take a lot of pictures.”

What You Need To Know

  • The Albany St. Patrick’s day parade celebrated its 72nd year

  • The previous two parades were canceled due to COVID

  • The North Albany Limerick parade also stepped off on Saturday

McMahon grew up watching the North Albany parade. His grandfather and father wore the kilt, so it was only right that he carried on the tradition.

“It’s all about memories, and doing what they all did, and just having a good day,” McMahon said.

Albany residents waited two years for the parade's return due to COVID, only to have it postponed this year due to weather. But finally this weekend, it was back, and residents were ready to celebrate.

“I’ve been looking forward to this for three years,” marshall of North Albany parade Wendy Kindlon said. “Since the pandemic, we haven’t had a parade. So I’m really looking forward to it,”

But the only thing better than one parade is two.

On the south side of the city, the 72nd annual Albany St. Patrick’s Day Parade brought out hundreds to celebrate.

“Absolutely, any chance we get to throw some green on or enjoy and celebrate our culture in a positive way, we take advantage of that every time,” Justin Miller said.

The return of the parade has a huge impact on everyone. From the residents to the businesses, it’s a spectacle like no other in the Capital Region.

“People just want to be here to support St. Patrick’s Day and the Irish community. That’s the great thing about it,” Gerald Jennings, former mayor of Albany, said. “Everyone comes together. It doesn’t matter if you’re Irish. It doesn’t matter where you’re from. That’s the important part of doing this.”

Many residents say it was nice to be back at one of their favorite events. But for some, it was a new memory and hopefully a continued tradition.

“Last time we were at this parade I was pregnant with him, and then COVID, so it’s been so sad,” Stephanie Montgomery said while watching the parade with her son. “But this brings so much joy back. And my son gets to see a parade, and he loves fire trucks. It’s been amazing.”