Naperville St. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns March 9

NAPERVILLE, IL — Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli will serve as grand marshal as the Naperville St. Patrick's Day Parade steps off once again on Saturday, March 9.

The West Suburban Irish announced this year's parade date on Saturday, saying organizers expect over 10,000 spectators at the event.

"We are thrilled to have a unique mix of family entertainment this year, including pipe and drum bands, Irish dancers, and other Irish themed floats and parade entries," Rich Janor, chairman of the Naperville St. Patrick's Day Parade, said in a statement. The parade will also feature local businesses, community groups and nonprofits, police and fire groups and elected officials.

The parade will be televised and recorded by Naperville Community Television (NC17).

The St. Patrick's Day Parade will step off at 10 a.m. March 9 near Naperville North High School, 899 N. Mill St., with the route heading through downtown Naperville and ending at Naperville Central High School, 440 Aurora Ave.

West Suburban Irish selected Wehrli as this year's grand marshal.

"As an adopted son with Irish blood, I’m honored to serve as the Grand Marshal for the Naperville St. Patrick’s Day Parade," Wehrli said. "This event is a long time family favorite; for years I proudly marched with my daughter’s McNulty Irish dance troupe. Naperville cherishes this celebration of culture and heritage, where all who attend are a little Irish for the day."

The parade committee is currently accepting parade entries and sponsors. To participate, visit WSIrish.org or contact Janor at Rich@Janor.com or (847) 477-7507.