POTTSVILLE, Pa. — Irish heritage will take center stage Saturday in the city of Pottsville.
"There are a lot of people in this county that claim Irish ancestry; the number you can pull off the internet is 18% of people in Schuylkill County claim some level of Irish ancestry," said parade committee chairperson Lori Michael.
This year marks 48 years for the St. Patrick's Day parade, which will step off from 12th Street.
"This year's parade is probably double the size of last year's. I think we have a really great lineup, and I think people will be very impressed with the parade this year."
Organizers say the parade will feature three pipe bands, two traditional Irish bands, and dozens of other community groups.
"Either walking, marching, riding in a vehicle, or pulling a float, and St. Patrick and a leprechaun will be in the parade," said Michael.
The hope is that people will come for the parade but stay to explore everything the city has to offer.
"With an event that brings people into town they've already parked their cars, they're walking around. It's a great way to get them into the businesses. Honestly, they will all be packed," said Michael.
The parade steps off at Noon on Saturday.
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