Our History
The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is more than just an event - it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and the unique spirit of Rumson. Each March, this festive, family-friendly parade brings together thousands of spectators from Rumson, neighboring towns, and beyond, reminding us all of the joy and unity that defines our town.
The parade began in 2013, inspired by a vision shared by the former owner of Molly Maguire's Black Point Inn, who dreamed of a procession passing right by her restaurant. Parade founder Mike Larkin turned that dream into reality with full support from the Mayor and Town Council. On March 10, 2013, the inaugural parade brought together the community with bagpipers, marching bands, and smiling families lining the streets, igniting a tradition that grew stronger each year.
On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone in Rumson is Irish! This special day transforms our town into a sea of green, where the sound of bagpipes fills the air and local organizations, schools, and businesses come together to march in celebration. It’s not just about honoring Irish heritage, celebrating the connections that make Rumson such a remarkable place to call home.
As a non-profit organization, the mission of the Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade is to honor Irish culture while giving back to the community that makes it all possible. Over the years, the Parade has provided financial support to more than 22 local organizations, helping to strengthen the Greater Rumson community through charitable giving.
This cherished event would not be possible without the generosity of local businesses, individual donors, corporate sponsors, participants, and dedicated volunteers. Their collective support ensures that the parade continues to bring joy, pride, and a sense of belonging to all who attend.
Past Grand Marshals have included prominent leaders such as Governor Phil Murphy, Brigadier General Pete Dawkins, and OceanFirst Bank Chairman Christopher Maher, each of whom has helped to highlight the parade's dedication to tradition, community, and service.
The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is more than just a parade - it’s a day where we come together as neighbors, friends, and families to celebrate the vibrant spirit of our town. Since 2013, this tradition has united us, and we look forward to continuing to create lasting memories for generations to come. Because in Rumson, every day is special, but St. Patrick’s Day is extraordinary.
The parade began in 2013, inspired by a vision shared by the former owner of Molly Maguire's Black Point Inn, who dreamed of a procession passing right by her restaurant. Parade founder Mike Larkin turned that dream into reality with full support from the Mayor and Town Council. On March 10, 2013, the inaugural parade brought together the community with bagpipers, marching bands, and smiling families lining the streets, igniting a tradition that grew stronger each year.
On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone in Rumson is Irish! This special day transforms our town into a sea of green, where the sound of bagpipes fills the air and local organizations, schools, and businesses come together to march in celebration. It’s not just about honoring Irish heritage, celebrating the connections that make Rumson such a remarkable place to call home.
As a non-profit organization, the mission of the Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade is to honor Irish culture while giving back to the community that makes it all possible. Over the years, the Parade has provided financial support to more than 22 local organizations, helping to strengthen the Greater Rumson community through charitable giving.
This cherished event would not be possible without the generosity of local businesses, individual donors, corporate sponsors, participants, and dedicated volunteers. Their collective support ensures that the parade continues to bring joy, pride, and a sense of belonging to all who attend.
Past Grand Marshals have included prominent leaders such as Governor Phil Murphy, Brigadier General Pete Dawkins, and OceanFirst Bank Chairman Christopher Maher, each of whom has helped to highlight the parade's dedication to tradition, community, and service.
The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is more than just a parade - it’s a day where we come together as neighbors, friends, and families to celebrate the vibrant spirit of our town. Since 2013, this tradition has united us, and we look forward to continuing to create lasting memories for generations to come. Because in Rumson, every day is special, but St. Patrick’s Day is extraordinary.
VIDEO: "A Look Back Over The Years"
