ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A sea of green will finally return to the streets of Rochester after a two-year hiatus because of the pandemic.

The Tops Rochester St. Patrick's Day Parade begins at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday at the corner of East Avenue and Alexander Street. 

The parade typically attracts thousands of people to downtown Rochester who are excited to see bagpipes, Irish dancing and musical performances.

The main event follows the annual Runnin' of the Green five-mile race. That starts on Exchange Boulevard at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday.

The parade and race means spectators will want to plan ahead when it comes to traveling and parking in the city.

Parking won't be allowed along the route starting at 7 a.m. on Saturday. There will be free parking offered at downtown parking garages. 

For parking garage locations, click here. Full details on the parade, the route, participants and more can be found here.

Watch the video to hear what the organizers are saying about the return of one of Rochester favorite events.