Imagine the chaos, mass intoxication and destruction of property at a once family-friendly event that has turned into a mosh pit of underage drinking and unacceptable behavior.
That is the essence of the South Side Irish Parade, held March 11, the Sunday prior to St. Patrick’s Day. It is a tradition that lived on throughout the city’s South Side neighborhood of Beverly dating back to 1979.
In 2009 the decision was made to cancel all future parades due to an abundance of complaints, around 50 arrests and many reports of public intoxication and disobedience.
After three years and much debate, the parade is returning but with stricter rules and an excessive amount of police, private security and volunteers keeping drinking under control and Western Avenue on lockdown.
Many bars and local businesses on Beverly’s main road are strongly supporting the parade’s triumphant return. Signs decorate windows and captions on bar storefronts say, “Tradition marches on” and “Support local business, support the parade.”
Although it may be normal for parents to oppose the parade, it seems that even some of the Southwest Side’s younger residents don’t see anything special about having the parade back in town.
“I’ve been to the parade more times than I can count and when they took it away, I wasn’t really upset. Basically the people who want to celebrate and drink that weekend will find a way to do so, and whether it’s at the parade or at the bars along Western, it doesn’t really matter,” said Ed Carone, a Mt. Greenwood resident.
But just like the many businesses that will benefit from the parade’s return, some South Side residents are already welcoming the parade back with open arms. While the parade’s reputation will forever remain negative to some residents, still others enjoy the parade and see it as a tribute to their heritage.
“I moved here from Ireland 12 years ago and the music and Irish dance at the parade reminds me of home,” said Liam Griffin, a Mt. Greenwood resident. “Plus I like bringing my kids, so they can see some of their heritage. The Irish are a proud group of