POTTSVILLE -- The forecast of rain has cancelled this year’s St. Patrick's Parade in Pottsville.
The parade has been a tradition for 40 years, but organizers have pulled the plug on this year's parade and there is no rain date.
Despite that decision, other parade day events are still scheduled as normal.
That includes the mass at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, the Grand Marshall's breakfast, and the Humane Fire Company's Grand Irish Party.
One bar owner said the rain will not stop the celebrations at his establishment.
"Our outdoor patio's actually covered so that's a benefit for us and our inside has plenty of room," said Stephen Smith, owner of Trippin’ Billie.
Some in Schuylkill County are disappointed the parade was cancelled.
“I`ll be very disappointed, I guess. Kids love it. It`s nice for businesses and now what do we have to look forward to?” Jill Fackenthal of Pottsville said.
People like Fackenthal are disappointed they won’t be able to paint the town green because this year’s parade has been canceled because of the weather.
Local business owners are equally disappointed. They rely on people packing the streets to boost their sales.
“Easily double normal business, if not triple. It`s a big, big day. It`s pretty much, I consider it our Black Friday,” said Smith.
Without the actual parade, Smith isn`t sure how business will fare on parade day.
“It`s hard to say because you never know. You never know. It could be a very good day. But the parade will always make it over the top,” Smith said.
Not all hope is lost for those hoping to enjoy a St. Patrick`s celebration here. Many of the parade day events are still scheduled as normal.
“A mass in the morning and some other events going on early morning which would`ve have been prior to the parade. Of course at noon time here at the fire house they start the Grand Old Irish Party,” said Joe Spotts with Humane Fire Company.
Organizers in Pottsville say if people still want the full St. Patrick`s celebration experience with a parade and all, they encourage them to attend some of the other parades happening our area.
