Jersey Shore’s Largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade Canceled After Major Snowstorm Hits Belmar Area
A traditional St. Patrick’s Day event at the Jersey Shore was canceled this weekend due to excessive precipitation for safety considerations. The 53rd annual Belmar-Lake Como parade has been canceled as cleanup work continue after a strong blizzard.
The storm made it unsafe for athletes and onlookers, organizers said Tuesday afternoon. The procession was scheduled for Sunday in Monmouth County, which received heavy snowfall the previous two days. At least 15 inches of snow fell between Sunday and Monday in Belmar, making roads and sidewalks dangerous.
The Belmar-Lake Como procession is celebrated as New Jersey’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The coastal community receives thousands of visitors annually. Organizers said 6,700 marchers, including 17 bagpipe bands, participated last year. With over 30 St. Patrick’s Day parades in New Jersey in March, Belmar’s is one of the most anticipated.
Parade organizers stated they will work with Belmar and Lake Como authorities to reschedule the event. However, logistics, public safety, and finances would determine any new date. No alternative date has been confirmed.
Despite the parade cancellation, a key tradition will continue. Organizers announced that St. Rose Church will host the annual grand marshal Mass on Saturday. Community members who attend this service should arrive on time.
Other regional events were affected by the storm. Special Olympics New Jersey deferred their annual polar plunge in Seaside Heights, Ocean County. The Saturday fundraiser event has been moved to March 14, according to organizers.
At least four New Jersey St. Patrick’s Day parades were scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon, with no modifications. These March activities draw enormous crowds around the state and promote local businesses and tourism.
Local officials focus on snow removal and public safety while residents recover from the storm. Snowstorms can make transport unsafe, emergency access limited, and big outdoor gatherings risky. Parade organizers said canceling the event was painful but necessary to protect the community.
Many families and guests consider the Belmar-Lake Como parade the unofficial start of spring festival season on the Jersey Shore. This year’s celebration will not go as planned, but organizers hope it will return when conditions allow.
Sources:
Parade organizers’ official public statements
Event updates from Special Olympics New Jersey
Local announcements from Belmar and Lake Como officials
