A Sea of Green

Ever since I was little, parades have always held a special place in my heart. There’s something magical about the gathering of people, united to celebrate a holiday or a moment deserving of fanfare. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to experience that magic firsthand by walking in the Pittsburgh St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

For those who might not know, the Pittsburgh St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a big deal—one of the largest parades in the nation! The parade route stretches 1.4 miles, and it typically draws between 200,000 to 350,000 spectators. With over 200 marching units, bands, and floats, it’s a celebration that fills the streets with music, laughter, and a lot of green. Western Pennsylvania’s strong Irish-American community shows up in full force, making this event a lively and heartwarming spectacle.

This year, I had the honor of walking with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Representing the team in such a spirited event was a highlight of the season. As we made our way along the route, we handed out Penguins towels, pucks, necklaces, and an assortment of treats to the enthusiastic crowd. The walk was long, but every step was worth it, surrounded by the energy of thousands of cheering fans.

A special shout-out to the Ice Breakers, our Penguins hype squad, who joined us in the parade. Just like at every home game, they brought the fun and kept the excitement high, making the day unforgettable for everyone on the route.

The festivities didn’t end with the parade, though! Later that evening, the Penguins faced off against the New York Rangers at PPG Paints Arena. It was amazing to see our usual black-and-gold crowd transformed into a sea of green, all while still cheering loud and proud for the team. The blend of hockey and holiday spirit created an atmosphere that only Pittsburgh could deliver.

St. Patrick’s Day 2024 was a day to remember—full of community, celebration, and, of course, Penguins pride.