Every year, the streets of New York City come alive with the sights and sounds of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade is one of the oldest in the world and has been a beloved tradition for over 250 years. This year, viewers at home won’t want to miss a minute of the Irish-style revelry and celebration. Read on to learn all you need to know about watching the 2021 New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
When Does the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Start?
This year, the parade will take place on March 17th. The traditional parade along Fifth Avenue kicks off at 11 AM and ends around 5 PM. However, you can start viewing it as early as 9 AM via live stream.
Viewing Opportunities
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s parade will be quite different from years prior. For 2021, the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee is offering many ways to watch the parade, including in-person as well as various live streaming options.
In-Person Viewing
In-person viewing of the parade on Fifth Avenue is available and is adhering to COVID-19 health regulations and guidelines. Throughout the four-mile-stretch, there will be crowd control that encourages social distancing, as well as regular sanitizing stations. As an added safety measure, all people attending must wear face masks that cover their nose and mouth.
Virtual Viewing
There are a few streaming options available this year, so you can watch from the comfort of your home. Here’s how to access them:
Tune in to NBC New York Live: This year, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade can be streamed live on NBC New York Live and will run from 9 AM to 3 PM. This app supports iOS, Apple TV and Android TV.
Stream on Flood the Streets: If you’re looking for the post-parade activities, such as the traditional St. Patrick’s Day festival and live music, they’ll be broadcast to the public through Flood the Streets, an app created by the parade’s official streaming partner, sUPPosition Live. This app also supports iOS, Apple TV and Android TV.
Watch on YouTube: The parade will also be available on YouTube, beginning at 11 AM and ending at 3 PM.
This year’s parade and post-parade festivities will be a great way for everyone to get in the spirit of the holiday, no matter where they are. Whether people are nearby or across the country from New York City, they’ll be able to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the parade.
Things to Look for During the 2021 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is known for being a unique and exciting event each year. This year, the parade will be slightly different due to COVID-19 safety guidelines, but it will still be jam-packed with the usual fun and Irish spirit. Here are just a few of the exciting things viewers can expect to see during the parade:
Stunning Sightings
The parade will feature clever and creative floats, featuring colorful decorations, gorgeous dancers and Irish-inspired music. There will also be colorful marching bands and plenty of other performers who will be sure to entertain the crowd.
Celebrity Guests
In the past, the parade has welcomed celebrities like Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, actor Sean Astin, athlete John Daly and more. While there won’t be any celebrities in the parade this year due to COVID-19 safety regulations, famous faces will make appearances on the live stream.
Irish Green
All throughout the parade, viewers can expect to see traditional “Irish Green” decorations. These decorations will include Irish flags, shamrocks and leprechauns.
The 2021 New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is sure to be a memorable one. Whether you’re cheering along in person or celebrating from home, the parade is sure to deliver festive merriment and Irish spirit. So be sure to tune in to experience the celebration and join the spirit of the holiday from wherever you are.
