Rumson St. Patrick's Day Pre-Parade Festivities Are Beginning

RUMSON, NJ — The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is March 10, but there's many a pre-parade activity planned to put you in the spirit, organizers say.

Here's a rundown of the events happening in the weeks leading up to the parade - and they are starting soon:

Green Tree Lighting: The borough is to adorn the town with green lights during this week - Feb. 26, culminating with the full illumination on March 1. Join us as we light up Rumson in festive hues to kick off the St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School Tower Lighting: On Friday, March 1, the tower of Rumson-Fair Haven High School will glow green in honor of the celebration.

Irish Soda Bread Contest: Co-sponsored with the Oceanic Library, the Irish Soda Bread Contest will offer Irish music, dance, bagpipers - and soda bread. The event is Thursday, March 7, starting at 7 p.m. Contestants will vie for the title of best Irish Soda Bread, with the winner receiving a plaque, prize, and a donation to the library. Registration forms (due March 4) are at the library, and there is a limit of 16 entries Registration is $25 by cash or check and the breads should be delivered to the library by 6 p.m. on night of event, Library Director Wendy Cettina said. The two owners of Cups & Cakes in Rumson will judge.

Irish Essay and Poster Contest: The Michael J. Larkin Memorial Irish Essay Competition invites participants to explore the contemporary identity of Irish Americans in the 21st century. With a deadline of March 1, participants can submit their essays for a chance to win cash prizes and recognition.

Additionally, the Rumson St. Patrick's Day Page Bigelow Irish Poster Contest encourages budding artists to showcase their creativity by depicting favorite Irish symbols or portraits of St. Patrick. Winners will be awarded cash prizes and accolades.

For the essay contest, winners will be awarded as follows: 1st place - $750 and plaque; 2nd place - $500 and plaque; 3rd place - $250 and plaque.

For the poster contest, winners will be awarded as follows: K through 3rd grade, 1st place - $25; 4th through 8th grade - 1st place winner, $50.

Post-Parade Awards Night recognitions will be announced soon, organizers say.

For more information and updates on these events, visit the Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee website at www.rumsonstpatricksdayparade.org/.