2026 West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos Harrison NJ

The streets of Harrison, East Newark, and Kearny came alive with pride, tradition, and unmistakable Irish spirit as the United Irish Associations of West Hudson celebrated the 50th Anniversary of its St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This milestone event once again proved why the parade remains one of the most cherished traditions in the region, bringing together generations of families, neighbors, and organizations in a shared celebration of heritage and community.

A  special gallery page on YourHarrison.com captures the heart of that celebration. From the stirring sounds of bagpipes echoing down Harrison Avenue to the cheers of spectators lining Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard, the parade showcased a vibrant cross-section of West Hudson’s identity, diverse, proud, and deeply connected. Photos of the Parade are available through this link.

Leading the way were iconic cultural groups like the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band. Marching alongside them were local favorites such as the Harrison High School Band and the Kearny High School Band, continuing a long tradition of musical excellence that defines parade day.

Community service and civic pride were on full display, with participation from the Harrison Fire Department, East Newark Volunteer Firefighters, and the North Arlington Fire Department, as well as veterans organizations like VFW Wilson Gugelman Post 1302. Their presence served as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice that help keep these communities strong.

The parade also highlighted the region’s rich cultural diversity. Organizations such as the Peruvian Civic Association of New Jersey and the Kearny ACP Portuguese Club proudly marched, reflecting the multicultural fabric of West Hudson. Meanwhile, advocacy groups, including Lupus Awareness organizations, used the platform to raise awareness and connect with the public in meaningful ways.

Local leadership and civic engagement were equally prominent, with elected officials like  Mayor James Fife driving his Town of Harrison car, accompanied by the Harrison Board of Education & Town Secretary, Maria Vila. There was also North Arlington Mayor David Pronti and Council, along with numerous community organizations, including the Kearny Rotary, Kearny Belleville Elks Lodge, and Copestone-Ophir Lodge 108, all showing their support for this historic event. Town of Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle apparently started her march in Kearny this year, as YourHarrison didn’t get a picture of her this year.  Or, maybe we just missed that photograph.  Let us know, Mayor!

Adding to the festive atmosphere were youth groups and unique participants that make the parade so memorable each year—from Girl Scouts Unit 14 and Kearny Boy Scouts Troop 305, to the energetic performances of Garden State Roller Derby, the spirited presence of the Kardinals Ice Hockey team. There were also unidentified groups that brought an added level of excitement and recognition to the day including a motorcycle club, a Jeep club and others.

Arts and history were also woven into the celebration, with groups like the The Kearny High School Drama Club and the creatively themed Fighting Irishman of the American Revolution, reminding spectators of both the cultural and historical roots behind the holiday.

At its core, the parade—and our gallery—represents more than just a single day of celebration. It reflects the unity of West Hudson communities and the enduring commitment of the United Irish Associations of West Hudson to preserve and share Irish heritage while welcoming all cultures into the celebration.

As you explore the photos in this Your Harrison gallery, you’ll see more than just marchers—you’ll see neighbors, traditions, and a community that continues to come together, 50 years strong, to celebrate something bigger than itself.

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