The Gerritsen Beach St. Patrick's Day Parade, celebrated for the 15th time this year, highlights the neighborhood's rich history dating back to 1629. The parade, held on March 29 along Gerritsen Avenue, featured over 30 community groups, celebrating local traditions and honoring series founders Tom and Dolores Donovan. Organizer Jim Donovan shared the evolution of the event, which began shortly after his father's passing in 2010. Faced with early challenges from weather conditions and logistical issues, the parade has grown significantly and fostered community spirit, pride, and tradition in this unique Brooklyn neighborhood.
Jim Donovan, parade organizer and family member, reflected on the evolution of the St. Patrick's Day Parade, stating, "It's the largest parade that Gerritsen Beach has ever had."
Bill Donovan recalled their father's legacy, sharing, "The neighborhood needed something for kids, so he bought uniforms, glockenspiels and drums, and he created the marching band."
Jim Donovan noted the challenges faced in the early years, recalling, "In the first parade, there was a hurricane and we lost 40 trees in Marine Park, but we had over 400 people in the march."
He further emphasized the importance of community involvement, saying, "Over 30 community groups, community leaders, and residents participated in this year's parade held in honor of its founders Tom and Dolores Donovan."
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