The annual St. Patrick's Day parade in Alexandria is one of the city's biggest spring events. Occurring on the first Saturday in March, the parade normally features pipe bands, Irish dance schools, community groups, musicians and performers.
But the Ballyshaners, the group that organizes and hosts the event, announced on their website that the parade will be postponed this year — and had some harsh words for Alexandria officials:
"As of January 18, 2022, we have yet to receive approval from the city of Alexandria to host the parade, and we don’t believe having the parade is feasible at this time given the uptick in COVID cases in the area and the lack of communication/cooperation from the city," the organization posted. "We look forward to providing our community with a parade as well as other events in the near future. Be sure to check our social media for updates. Thank you for your understanding as we navigate these difficult times."
The City of Alexandria released the following statement in response: "The City recognizes the significance of The Ballyshaners’ Saint Patrick’s Day Parade as a community tradition in Alexandria for more than four decades. The City’s special events team was in communication with The Ballyshaners about their event and was prepared to issue an event permit, however the City cannot guarantee that COVID-19 guidelines or rules won’t change prior to events like these. (The First Night Alexandria event is one example.) We understand that The Ballyshaners, in the interest of safety, have announced that they are postponing the parade until March 26 and staff is working with them on their new date. Currently, the organizers of the George Washington Parade have not notified the City of any changes."
The George Washington Birthday Parade is still set for Feb. 21 in Old Town Alexandria.
