Rockland AOH Celebrates St. Patrick's Day March 19 In Pearl River

PEARL RIVER, NY — Preparations are entering the final stage for March 19, the day in 2023 when the Rockland County Ancient Order of Hibernians will hold its annual St. Patrick's Day celebration in the "most Irish Place in New York."

First event of the day is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Mass at Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church in Tappan at 9:15 a.m. Afterward, a breakfast will be held at the Pearl River Hilton honoring Grand Marshal Tom Leavy and his aides. See their photos here on the Rockland AOH website.

Roads close at noon around the parade route. The parade itself kicks off around 1:30 p.m., rain or shine. On-street parking is available, but make sure you don't violate the full-time or temporary restrictions, because Orangetown police will definitely ticket and tow.

The 19th is only the culmination of the St. Patrick’s Day season. It began as usual with the Rockland County Emerald Ball, which this year was Feb. 25 at the Pearl River Hilton. The honorees this year:

• Hibernian of the Year, Laurence DeGennaro
• Businessperson of the Year, Breda Lyons & Catherine Levins, River Court on Main
• Parade Commander, Sheriff Louis Falco
• Grand Marshal, Thomas Leavy
• Aide to the Grand Marshal, NYC, Dennis Toal

Editor's Note: The location of the Mass is Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church in Tappan. It was incorrect in the original version of this article.