Some of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades are held in cities like New York and Chicago, drawing thousands of spectators and copious amounts of green beer.
But for a very different reason, a city in Arkansas has become more and more well-known over the years because to its parade. The 98-foot route is marketed as the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade by the city of Hot Springs, a resort town renowned for its mineral-rich springs.
One of the city’s main attractions, the parade has been staged on Bridge Street downtown for more than 20 years. Celebrities who have attended the yearly, brief event, such as rap legend Flavor Flav and actress Valerie Bertinelli, have even taken notice.
How the parade began
According to Visit Hot Springs CEO Steve Arrison, the concept started in 2003 when he and some friends were “drinking adult beverages” at a restaurant in the downtown area when the subject of St. Patrick’s Day was brought up.
“After some discussion, we decided to hold a parade.” “Arrison said.”
About 1,500 people attended the procession when it started the next year. According to organizers, the march attracts over 30,000 spectators annually.
What’s a 98-foot parade like?
For the world’s shortest, the parade packs in a lot. They’ll have 40 different floats, and participants will include 100 members of a group of Elvis Presley impersonators known as the International Order of the Marching Irish Elvi.
Another float will feature the local chapter of the International Society of Helen Ropers, with participants dressed up as the character from the 1970s sitcom, “Three’s Company”.
The parade has also featured a celebrity grand marshal and parade starter, and over the years has included familiar names such as actor Kevin Bacon, “Cheers” star George Wendt and country music star Justin Moore. This year, Bertinelli will be the grand marshal and Flav will be the official starter.
The parade even created its own green version of the signature clock necklace Flav, a founding member of Public Enemy, is known for wearing.
The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have also participated in the parade for the past several years.
The parade includes other events, including a concert and a “Blarney Stone kissing contest.” Before the parade begins Monday, there’s an official measuring of the route.
