March 17 (Reuters) – After a two-year absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic, New York Metropolis’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade returned in particular person on Thursday, with crowds decked out in emerald inexperienced cheering marchers in kilts as they made their approach down Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue.
Rain and gray skies didn’t preserve revelers away.
“It is the very best factor for New York,” mentioned native resident Patrick Delaney. “It is simply what we want, a shot within the arm to take off the main focus, elevate our spirits.”
Marching bands enjoying bagpipes, performers and politicians all walked to rejoice Irish heritage, together with members of the New York Metropolis Fireplace Division and Police Division.
The parade halted at midday and turned south in direction of Floor Zero for a second of silence to mark the twentieth anniversary of the September 11 World Commerce Middle assaults.
New York Firefighters participate in St Patrick’s Day Parade on fifth Avenue, within the Manhattan borough of New York Metropolis, New York, U.S., March 17, 2022. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly
“It is an incredible day,” mentioned New York Legal professional Basic Letitia James, including that she was happy “to be an honorary Irish particular person.”
The parade, which kicked off at forty fourth road on Fifth Avenue, drew guests from abroad and from throughout america.
“We got here from Eire to rejoice, to see the parade right here, we have seen a lot about it,” mentioned Laura Taeny. “We’ve not been capable of go to a parade in two years, so we’re so excited to be right here.”
Others got here from nearer to house.
“After two years not having this, it is nice to be again,” mentioned Justine Pacheco from Nassau County, New York.
Reporting by Christine Kiernan; modifying by Diane Craft
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