Kiss Me, I’m Irish! – but You Better Behave

A Parade with a Purpose

Boston is gearing up for one of its most iconic events: the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade. This year, however, things are a little different. In an effort to curb the "tomfoolery" that has marred the event in previous years, city officials have decided to kick things off earlier than usual. The 2024 parade, which also celebrates Evacuation Day, will start at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 16. That’s an hour and a half earlier than in past years, and the hope is that this change will helpKeep things more under control.

State Senator Nick Collins summed it up perfectly: "The parade will be starting earlier this year in an attempt to get a better handle on the tomfoolery." Last year’s event saw some regrettable moments that officials are determined not to repeat. From rowdy behavior to outright chaos, the 2023 parade had its fair share of issues, and this year, Boston is taking a proactive approach to ensure a more family-friendly and respectful celebration.

Cracking Down on Chaos

Politicians and parade organizers aren’t the only ones pushing for change. Local leaders like City Councilor Ed Flynn, a retired U.S. Navy veteran, are also calling for a more orderly event. Flynn, who served during Operation Enduring Freedom, has a clear message for attendees: "Operate under the golden rule, and if you wouldn’t do it back home – don’t do it here." It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that respect and courtesy should guide everyone’s behavior.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox echoed these sentiments during a recent press conference. "We ask anyone coming to treat this event, and the neighborhood, as if it was your home," he said. Cox made it clear that while Boston is a welcoming city, unruly and unlawful behavior will not be tolerated. "This is a family-friendly event. This is not a drinking fest," he emphasized.

Alcohol Restrictions and a Call to Responsibility

To back up these words, Boston is taking concrete steps to prevent the kind of antics that marred last year’s parade. For starters, all liquor stores in South Boston will close at 4 p.m., and bars and restaurants will stop admitting new patrons at 6 p.m. Alcohol service will come to a halt at 7 p.m. These measures are designed to limit the kind of excessive drinking that often fuels bad behavior.

But it’s not just about alcohol. Cox also warned parents to keep a close eye on their kids or leave them at home. "It’s not Mardi Gras, and it’s not meant to be that way," added Boston EMS Chief James Hooley. The message is clear: this is a celebration meant to be enjoyed responsibly, not an excuse for recklessness.

Last Year’s Lessons

Unfortunately, last year’s parade provided plenty of reasons for these new measures. The 2023 event, which drew around a million people, was marred by violence, assaults, and general mayhem. Videos of the chaos went viral, and multiple arrests were made. Incidents included people climbing onto rooftops without proper decks and beer cans being thrown at parade participants. It was, in Hooley’s words, "not as well-behaved" as organizers had hoped, with young, intoxicated individuals driving much of the trouble.

These incidents were a wake-up call for city officials, who are determined to ensure that this year’s parade is a celebration of Irish heritage and Boston’s history, not an excuse for bad behavior.

Respect and Reflection

The parade is about more than just green attire and good cheer. It’s also a celebration of Evacuation Day, marking the historic moment when British troops left Boston on March 17, 1776. This dual celebration is a reminder of the city’s rich history and the values it represents: freedom, resilience, and community.

Councilor Flynn made a heartfelt appeal to attendees: "If you are a guest, or in South Boston for the Evacuation Day Parade – show some common courtesy and respect for the residents, for our veterans and military families, our dedicated first responders, and our history." It’s a request that gets to the heart of what this parade is all about: coming together to celebrate heritage and honor the city’s legacy.

As Boston gears up for this year’s event, the hope is that the earlier start time, combined with a renewed focus on respect and responsibility, will make for a parade that everyone can enjoy – without the "tomfoolery" of years past. It’s a chance for the city to showcase its spirit, its pride, and its commitment to community. Let’s make this one to remember for all the right reasons. Sláinte!