Thousands Celebrate Annual Parade Day

3/2/2013 (Updated 11:00:00 PM)

BINGHAMTON -- Thousands came out from across New York State to enjoy Binghamton's Annual St. Patrick's day parade Saturday--and it was a stark difference from last year's 60 degree weather.

Parade Day partiers faced sub-freezing temperatures Saturday. But did it stop the festivities?

"No, it's never too cold," said BCC student Chris Lewis.

People kept warm by walking and bundling up.

"It's really cold but it's a lot of fun, we're moving really fast and it's keeping us warm," said Meteorologist Kate Thornton of Fox 40 HD News.

"Layers and layers, handwarmers, and blankets," said Caroline Hogenboon of Endicott.

Coming to watch professional bagpipe players and local organizations march is a tradition for many families, friends, and students.

"It's a great time to paint your face, put on stickers, be goofy and green," said Hogeboon.

"It's my favorite holiday.  It's the one day of the year I can get away with wearing a kilt," said Lewis.

And even local politicians got in on the fun.

"It's a great day to be Irish and everybody who wishes they were Irish," said Mayor Matthew Ryan.

"I love being out here with the kids and giving them candy," said Broome County Executive Debbie Preston.

Local business owners say that although this is the coldest parade day they can remember, it is still one of the biggest and busiest days of the year.

"Look around, you can see people are happy," said Drew Peters, owner of Dillinger's Irish Pub.

"I'ts becoming a big event, not just for local people but even for people travelling" said, owner of Pasquale's Pizza.

So is St. Patricks Day just for the Irish?

"No, everyone's Irish on Parade Day!" said Lewis.

Samantha McDonald, Fox 40 HD News.



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