Hibernians announce return of WNY's largest St. Patrick's Day party

Annual event returns to Niagara Falls Conference Center; renowned Irish musical acts, McCarthy School of Irish dance to perform

Following a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Ancient Order of Hibernians Rev. James J. Browne Division 1 announced the return of the region’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration. This anticipated event will once again take place March 17 at the Conference & Event Center Niagara Falls, located at 101 Old Falls St.

“We are very excited to once again host this fun-filled celebration of Irish culture and heritage,” said Kevin O’Brien, president of Division 1. “In 2020 as we were setting up for the party, we received word that the public health situation would force us to cancel this beloved event. We never expected that circumstances would force us to also cancel 2021. That’s why we are so excited for today’s announcement and hope that this is a sign of a greater return to normalcy for all of us.”

The celebration kicks off at 4:45 p.m. when the “World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade” steps off from the corner of Old Falls and Second streets in Niagara Falls. The parade ends at the front of the Conference Center, when doors will officially open to the public. Patricia Mahoney, a longtime member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, will serve as this year’s parade grand marshal.

This year, renowned Irish musical acts Poor Ould Goat and Crikwater will perform for attendees. The award-winning dancers from the McCarthy School of Irish Dance will entertain guests, once again, with a display of traditional Irish step dancing between performances.

Irish food and drink will be available for purchase. Doors will be open from 4:45-11 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or online at aohnf.com/tickets. Tables are available on a first come, first served basis.

Interested in becoming a Hibernian? Email [email protected] More information can be found at https://www.aohnf.com or by visiting the Niagara Falls Ancient Order of Hibernians Facebook page.