March 17th is a special day in Wenatchee as the city gears up for its beloved St. Patrick’s Day Parade—a zany and festive celebration of Irish heritage and community spirit. Known as “The Shortest Parade Route in the World,” this event has been bringing joy to locals and visitors alike for decades. Here's everything you need to know about this year's parade and its charming history.

Parade Details for 2025

• Date:     St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, 2025
• Start     Time: Around 7:00 PM (lineup begins at 6:15 PM on Mission Street,     south of the Mission Street/Orondo Avenue intersection)
• Route:     A half-block down Orondo Avenue, from the South Mission intersection to Wenatchee Avenue
• Duration:     Approximately 30 minutes, wrapping up by 7:30 or 7:40 PM

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A 44-Year Legacy

This year marks the 44th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which first marched down Orondo Avenue in 1981. Founded by KW3’s former General Manager and Owner Jim Corcoran (proudly Irish), along with Sales Manager David Herald, News Director Rich Moll, and Wenatchee’s former Mayor Jim Lynch (also Irish), the parade was envisioned as a lighthearted and inclusive celebration for the community. Tradition has it that Wenatchee’s Mayor kicks off the festivities, often joined by the East Wenatchee Mayor, with a police escort leading the way.

Today, the parade is organized by the Wenatchee Chapter of Loyal Hibernians, with Directors David Herald and long-time Downtown Wenatchee Kiwanis Club member Tom Irvin at the helm.

Who’s in the Parade?

Each year, around 30 groups participate, adding their own flair to the half-block route. Participants have included:

• Clubs and community groups
• School organizations
• Marching bands
• Bagpipe players
• Irish dancers
• Decorated cars
• Mascots
• Horses (such as Miss Omak Stampede and her trusty steed)
• Law enforcement entries

No motorcycles, but the eclectic mix of participants ensures there’s something fun and entertaining for everyone.

How to Join the Fun

Participation in the parade is free, and all entrants receive a Participant Ribbon. There are even NASCAR-size trophies up for grabs, courtesy of Haglund’s Trophies, in categories such as:

• Best St. Patrick’s Day Theme
• Can’t Believe They Really Did It
• Farthest Distance Traveled

To join, sign up starting February 1st, 2025, via the SUNNYFM website or Facebook page. Registration forms will also be available at the SUNNY FM studios, located at 18 South Wenatchee Avenue.

Fun Facts and Quirky Traditions

• Despite being named as Grand Marshals, celebrities like Elvis Presley, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Hillary Clinton, Kevin Hart, and Charlie Sheen have     (unsurprisingly) never shown up for the parade.
• The parade’s half-block route has remained the same since its inception. While brief, it’s packed with energy and charm.
• Attendance varies depending on the weather, with crowds ranging from 800 to 1,500 people.

Why It’s Worth Attending

The Wenatchee St. Patrick’s Day Parade may be short, but it’s big on heart. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or joining the lineup, this quirky tradition is a testament to Wenatchee’s vibrant community spirit. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the fun this March 17th—sláinte!

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