Saint Anselm Parish celebrated Irish heritage holding the “Party After the Bay Ridge St. Patrick’s Parade” on Sunday, March 23, 2025 in Bay Ridge Catholic’s Meletia Hall.
After a wonderful parade (30th Anniversary), which marched along 3rd Avenue from Marine Avenue to 67th Street, the celebration in Meletia Hall began with good food, good music, and great conversation. Diners enjoyed shepherd’s pie, corned beef and other traditional St. Patrick’s Day foods (including – not so traditional – green and white cookies and pizza!). “Band of Rogues”, played both popular and traditional Irish songs, providing music for both dancing and listening. And, there was a wonderful display of Irish step dancing by the O’Malley Irish Dance Academy, with colleens ranging in age from munchkin to teens – dazzling with their footwork and grace.
During the afternoon, celebrants had the opportunity to try their luck at a fantastic selection of raffle gifts, a 50/50 Raffle and the chance to guess the number of Hershey’s Kisses in a large jug. We’re sure some youngster went home happy with that prize!
Meletia Hall was decked out for the occasion with shamrocks, leprechauns and a giant rainbow with a pot of gold at its end. Green was the color of the day in sweaters, blouses and scarfs – as well as earrings, necklaces and headpieces festooned with miniature shamrocks. While tradition says that St. Patrick banished the snakes from Ireland, one cute green dragon joined the crowd for the festivities. Tables were bedecked with gold coins – or at least chocolate, covered in golden foil, which were enjoyed with gusto.
The Parade Party, requires a lot of effort and dedication – and so we say “Thank You” to Kristen Gallagher, Chair of the Party, and a wonderful team of volunteers who put together a great day for Saint Anselm Parish, for Bay Ridge, and for Irish heritage!
All the best,
The St. Anselm Publicity Committee