After one of the most extraordinary winter storms the Jersey Shore has ever seen, the green flags are flying once again.

Following a historic blizzard that blanketed the region with more than two feet of snow, the Belmar–Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade — the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in New Jersey — has officially been rescheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026. And with the announcement, one thing is clear: the spirit of the Irish, and the pride of this Shore community, remain as strong as ever.

This marks the first weather-related postponement in the parade’s 53-year history, a testament to both the severity of the storm and the deep commitment organizers have to doing things the right way.

Now, with the snow cleared and safety assured, the beloved tradition is back on the calendar — and expected to be bigger than ever.

🕰 Parade Details at a Glance

• Event: 53rd Annual Belmar–Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• New Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026
• Step-Off Time: 12:30 PM
• Route:
  • Begins at North Lake Boulevard in Lake Como
  • Proceeds north along Main Street
  • Concludes at 5th Avenue in Belmar

Spectators are strongly encouraged to arrive early, as crowds are expected to exceed 100,000 people.

🌨 A Blizzard for the Record Books — and a Parade Worth Protecting

Originally scheduled for March 1, the parade was forced to pause after a powerful nor’easter brought the Shore to a standstill, creating unsafe conditions along the route and surrounding areas. Rather than rush forward, the Parade Committee made the call to protect participants, spectators, and the integrity of the event itself.

“Safety is our first priority, but tradition is a close second,” – said Chip Cavanagh, Parade Chairman.

“This blizzard was one for the record books, but we weren’t going to let 53 years of history end with a snowdrift. Moving the parade to March 28 ensures a clear route with safe viewing areas for spectators so we can host the celebration our community expects and deserves.”

Behind the scenes, organizers worked closely with officials from both Belmar and Lake Como, coordinating logistics, public safety, and scheduling to ensure the parade’s signature elements — including world-class pipe bands and marching units — would still be able to perform.

The result: a rescheduled event that preserves everything people love about this parade, without compromise.

🥁 Why This Parade Matters

The Belmar–Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade is more than a march down Main Street — it’s a regional institution.

Now in its 53rd year, the parade has grown into a defining Shore tradition, drawing visitors from across New Jersey and beyond. Each year, it showcases:

• Internationally renowned Irish pipe and drum bands
• High school and community marching bands
• Local organizations, first responders, and civic groups
• Businesses and families proudly representing the Shore’s Irish-American heritage

It’s a celebration rooted in tradition, but fueled by community — one where generations line the same curb year after year, sharing music, memories, and a deep sense of belonging.

🚆 Plan Ahead: Getting There & Watching Live

With massive crowds expected, planning ahead is key:

• NJ Transit typically runs additional trains on the NJ Coast Line for parade day
• Parking will be limited; public transportation and carpooling are strongly encouraged
• For those unable to attend in person, the parade will be livestreamed, allowing viewers everywhere to take part in the celebration

🍀 The Wearing of the Green Continues

If anything, this year’s postponement has only strengthened the meaning behind the celebration. What was delayed by snow has returned with renewed anticipation — a reminder that tradition endures, even in the face of record-breaking storms.

On Saturday, March 28, Main Street will once again be filled with music, green attire, waving flags, and the unmistakable energy that signals the Jersey Shore’s transition from winter to spring.

Fifty-three years in, the Belmar–Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade remains a shining example of community resilience, pride, and celebration.

So bundle up one last time, wear the green proudly, and come be part of history — because the parade is back on, and Belmar is ready.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Jersey Shore. 🍀