NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – The tradition continues with the return of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade overlooking the ocean.
The annual parade has been canceled for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and weather.
“It’s been a few years, this is the 56th St. Patrick’s Day Parade here in the city of Norfolk, it’s exciting, it’s vibrant,” said Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander. “It’s great to bring the community together!”
As the rain left the area on Saturday morning, the Irish’s success returned in full force to Granby Street.
“We love the parade,” Gina Montour said. “It’s time to celebrate.”
The chill in the air didn’t stop residents on the other side of Hampton Roads from enjoying the festivities.
“The parade is sorely missed, the weather was kind to us last year and we’re just happy to be back,” said Mark Villaflor, Father of Christ the King.
The Granby High School marching band was one of several bands in the parade. The high school drumline known as Raw Ambition just won 1st place at the Clash of the Drumlines in Dallas, Texas.
This is the last year Granby senior Amarion Howell will participate in the parade. Howell received a band scholarship to Norfolk State University.
“I’m studying music media to learn sound engineering. I hope to become a professional sound engineer,” said Howell.
10 On Your Side heard from several spectators ahead of the parade who were upset to learn their vehicle had been ticketed.
Norfolk City Manager Chip Filer issued a statement admitting it was a mistake.
“We are thrilled to have the St. Patrick’s Day Parade overlooking the ocean back this year after a long hiatus. Three years later, city officials are a little rusty remembering the parade’s annual tradition. As a result, employees mistakenly issued tickets for cars parked in the middle of the parade route. I apologize to those who were convicted of this case. Rest assured, we will fix this bug. Please wait for your ticket and we will provide further instructions on next steps shortly. I hope everyone enjoys reviving this wonderful annual tradition.” – said Filer.