What a load of blarney. On Sunday, the United Irish Societies announced Montreal's annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade had been cancelled due to COVID-19 for the second year in a row.
“At this time, the health and safety of the Montreal community is our greatest priority,” stated parade organizers.
Editor's Choice: Quebec Isn't Going To Support Hosting The 2026 FIFA World Cup In Montreal
“
With a heavy heart and careful consideration, the United Irish Societies of Montreal Executive Committee [...] has cancelled the 2021 St. Patrick’s Parade
United Irish Societies of Montreal
“We must act in the best interest and well-being of all organizers, volunteers, participants, and spectators.”
The 198th edition of the parade was scheduled for March 14.
“Though we are disappointed to announce the cancellation, we will monitor the situation,” they continued.
“If public safety rules allow large gatherings at any point in 2021, we reserve the right to hold the parade on an alternate date.”
Having previously been announced as one of the top 10 places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by National Geographic, Montreal takes its shamrock-coloured beer very seriously.
Established in 1824, Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the "longest-running of its kind in Canada," according to Tourisme Montréal.
The organization also says that up to 700,000 revellers typically line rue Sainte-Catherine to watch hundreds of floats and performers in celebration of Irish culture and heritage.
Last year’s parade, scheduled for March 22, was initially postponed due to concerns over COVID-19 but was never rescheduled.
