St. Patrick's Preview
People across the world probably don't immediately think of Springfield, Missouri when they think of St. Patty's Day. But with our awesome parade, I'm really surprised they don't.
Sure, we don't have a river that we turn green, and I'm not even sure if there's a strong Irish heritage in town, but I will tell you that the annual St. Patty's Day parade is a treat not to be missed. Starting on Commercial Street and ending at Park Central Square, hundreds of revelers participate with hand-crafted floats and bags of candy. The weather is always a little gray and misty, exactly how I would imagine a spring day on the Emerald Isle.
I started going when I was in high school. Hello! Free candy and beads! My sister and I would giggle with delight at how crazy all the parade participants were. Who was this absurd woman dressed up like a leprechaun, riding a unicycle? What about that guy walking the giant dog with a top hat? Is that someone in a gold bikini??
Then, three years ago, I became one of those crazy people. And it's addictive. My group started simple, with matching jumpers, sashes, and berets. We call ourselves The Scissor Scouts. We had a group of guys follow us beating drums, and a small herd of pugs, wearing little hats and orange beards. I don't think we placed at all. Last year, one of the girls thought big. I mean, 9-foot-tall St. Patrick big. Complete with a giant snake that St. Pat was banishing. We wore green tulle tutus and threw candy at the crowds. We placed third for Best Group! I'm not going to give away the genius that is this year. But here's a hint: unicorns.
So come down to the parade this year. Bundle up, just in case, and bring a bag for all the candy. And don't be surprised, if a few years from now, you get caught up in the excitement and decided to participate yourself.
For more info: http://www.springfieldstpatsparade.org/
Nicole Chilton, blog contributor
Nicole Chilton and her husband, Dan, own Moxie Cinema in Wilhoit Plaza. Nicole is also a past president of the Downtown Springfield Association.
