Atlantic City Gears Up for Largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in City History

ATLANTIC CITY – Atlantic City officials are preparing for what organizers say will be the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the city’s history.

Mayor Marty Small, Sr., joined by parade officials including Sonny McCullough and 2026 Grand Marshal Daniel Gallagher, announced plans this week at City Hall for the 38th annual Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The event will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, stepping off at 1 p.m. along the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

This year’s celebration is expected to feature more than a dozen bands from across the Delaware Valley and more than 100 participating groups. Organizers anticipate tens of thousands of spectators will line the Boardwalk for the two-mile procession.

Held annually for nearly four decades, the parade has become one of Atlantic City’s longest-running traditions and an unofficial kickoff to spring and the tourism season. Organizers estimate that more than 50,000 spectators attend each year, providing a significant boost to local businesses during a key shoulder-season weekend.

Bars, restaurants, casinos, hotels and small businesses throughout the city typically see increased foot traffic as visitors travel to the shore for the festivities. The event transforms the Boardwalk into a daylong, family-friendly celebration featuring marching bands, community groups and Irish cultural displays.

“The Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Day Parade brings more than 50,000 people to our world-famous Boardwalk, with participants and visitors coming from all over to celebrate with us,” Small said. “That kind of turnout has a tremendous impact on our community, and our local economy benefits greatly. Nobody throws events better than the Great City of Atlantic City, and this parade is proof of that.”

Small also thanked the parade planning board and city departments for their continued work in organizing the annual event, noting that municipal departments will participate in the celebration.

Additional details about parade participants, road closures and related events are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

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