Saint Patrick’s Day ~ Manassas, Virginia

March 15, 2008 ~ Manassas, Virginia.  Today marks the 9th Annual Saint Patrick’s Day in Old Town Manassas, Virginia.  Saint Patrick is Ireland’s most popular Saint. Saint Patrick was born in 385 in Scotland. When he was fourteen years old he was abducted by Druids, people who practice paganism and taken as a slave to Ireland. As a slave he tended and herded sheep. He was a devout man and professed his trust in God and was not afraid of fire, swords, or death. His life was as colorful as his stories which included the banishment of snakes in Ireland and walking through fire to convert the druid prince. Saint Patrick is notably associated with the Shamrock which he used to explain the Trinity, and has been associated with him and the Irish since that time. Along with Saint Valentine, Saint Patrick‘s Day is probably the most and widely celebrated feast day in North America in addition to Ireland.

The program officially kicked-off with Joint Armed Services Color Guard followed by United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corp. Local and State politicians attended this yearly festive event and among them were Chief Kevin McGee, Prince William County Fire Chief; Mr. Charles Colgan, Virginia State Senator; Mr. Robert G. Marshall, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates; Wally Covington, Brentsville District, Prince William County Board of Supervisors; Mr. Douglas S. Waldron, Mayor, City of Manassas, Virginia.

Local residents and visitors crowded the streets and celebrated this festive occasion which traditionally marks the beginning of Spring. The parade is definitely a yearly event not be missed. Compared to the parades on the other side of the beltway, this home grown event offers visitors and residents a chance to experience local Irish flavor. The streets are easily assessable and within walking distance of the parade. Parking is not as a major inconvenience.

 

Date Published: 2008-03-19 03:00:00

Section: Community Events,