West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade Will Return For 2025

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Public School District. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The 72nd annual West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade is set to take place on Sunday, March 16, 2025, continuing a cherished tradition that has united the community since its founding in 1951. This beloved celebration of Irish heritage proudly carries on its deep family legacy, as many of the original Parade Committee founders’ children and grandchildren now serve as officers, ensuring that this extraordinary event remains a pillar of the West Orange community.

This year, we are honored to announce Noel G. O’Keeffe as Grand Marshal, alongside our distinguished Deputy Grand Marshals: Kevin Bolan, Rich McDonald, Jim McGuire, and Kathleen Smith Loria. Each of these outstanding individuals has made remarkable contributions to the Irish community, embodying the values of heritage, service, and tradition.

A Parade Like No Other

The West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade holds a special place in history—not only as one of the most anticipated celebrations in the region, but also as a trailblazer in leadership. This parade was the first of its kind in the Tri-State Area to have both a female Grand Marshal and a female Parade Chairwoman, marking significant milestones in Irish-American history. The parade is a community-driven tradition, relying solely on private donations and funds raised through various fundraising activities to continue its proud legacy each year. In addition to celebrating Irish heritage, the Parade Committee is deeply committed to giving back, actively participating in coat and food drives throughout the year to support those in need. This beloved event is also dedicated to the memories of Brendan P. Tevlin, Archbishop Thomas Boland, and Patrick Melvin, whose legacy and commitment to the parade live on through the spirit of service, unity, and celebration that define this annual tradition.

Each year, thousands of spectators from West Orange and beyond gather along Main Street to watch local businesses, cultural organizations, and historical groups march proudly in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick. This vibrant event is more than just a parade—it is a testament to the strength, unity, and enduring spirit of the Irish-American community.

Introducing Grand Marshal Noel G. O’Keeffe

Born in November 1966 in Orange, NJ, Noel G. O’Keeffe was raised in West Orange, deeply immersed in both the Irish-American community and local traditions. The son of Noel S. O’Keeffe of Ballyduff Upper, Co. Waterford, and Phylis Sheehy O’Keeffe of Sallynoggin, Co. Dublin. Noel grew up on Shepard Terrace, once one of the premier parade viewing locations in town.

From an early age, Noel embraced his Irish roots and community spirit. His passion for West Orange’s history, culture, and camaraderie is evident in his lifelong dedication to the Essex Shillelagh Pipe & Drum Band, the Shillelagh Club, and numerous local initiatives. As the leader of O’Keeffe Contracting, a West Orange-based family business since 1964, Noel has not only built a successful career but also helped preserve and support many of the community’s most cherished institutions.

Among his many contributions, Noel has served in key roles at the Shillelagh Club, including as Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Vice President, and Chairman of Building & Grounds, spearheading major renovations. He also played a pivotal role in the Project Children Fundraiser, a program that provided respite to children from Northern Ireland.

Noel’s impact extends beyond his leadership—his love for tradition, music, and community service has made him a familiar and beloved figure in West Orange and beyond. Whether playing the bagpipes, marching in parades, or volunteering for charitable causes, his unwavering dedication to heritage, family, and the Irish community makes him a truly deserving Grand Marshal.

Celebrate with Us!

We invite the entire community to join us on Sunday, March 16, 2025, as we celebrate Grand Marshal Noel G. O’Keeffe, Deputy Grand Marshals Kevin Bolan, Rich McDonald, Jim McGuire, and Kathleen Smith Loria, and the incredible legacy of the West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

For more information on our honorees, ways to support the parade, Parade Day details, and the rich history of this beloved event, please visit www.westorangeparade.com.

Let’s come together to honor our heritage, celebrate our community, and march forward with pride!

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