40th Annual Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Planned With Fun Dog Show

ALEXANDRIA, VA — After a cancellation in 2022, the Alexandria St. Patrick's Day returns this year with the Fun Dog Show.

The 40th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will be held Saturday, March 4 at 12:15 p.m. The parade starts at King Street and Alfred Street, runs down King Street and finishes at Lee and Cameron Streets. The grand marshal of the parade will be Charlotte Hall, a longtime business figure, as reported by The Zebra.

The parade is a decades-long tradition organized by the volunteer Ballyshaners. It typically features pipe bands, Irish dance schools, community groups, musicians and other performers.

In 2022, parade was not held as organizers were unable to secure a permit in time. A Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Festival was held instead in September.

This year, parade spectators can come early for the returning Fun Dog Show hosted by the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria at 11 a.m. Located on the stage at King and Royal Street, this show features pups dressed up in spirited costumes to compete for awards. Pet owners who register their dogs will be eligible for three awards: Most St. Paddy's Spirit, Best Human/Canine Combo Costume, and Most Creative.

Registration for a dog to participate is $25 per category or $30 on site. All proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, which runs the city's animal shelter and provides other animal services. Contestants are asked to arrive by 10:45 a.m.

Another pre-parade event will be a Classic Car show in the 100 block of N. Pitt Street between King and Cameron Streets starting at 9 a.m.

Due to the parade costing tens of thousands of dollars, the Ballyshaners welcome donations to keep the parade running. Donations may be made on the Ballyshaners donate page or by reaching out to [email protected].

For a map of the parade route and more information, visit www.ballyshaners.org/parade.