Dear Editor:
As a 15 year resident of Hoboken, I have watched our St. Patrick’s Day celebration become more and more complicated over the span of several City administrations. When this year’s Parade was cancelled I was disappointed, but more so by the events that led to the decision.
When I set about coordinating the Hoboken Irish Cultural Festival, my intention was to create an event that serves as a placeholder, not a replacement for the Parade. From the perspective of a writer, bartender and now a father as well, I understand the importance of the Parade while recognizing the need to mitigate the unruly behavior that has unfortunately become associated with it.
At first glance, it’s hard to see tens of thousands visitors to our city as a bad thing until you see what has been left in their wake over the years. It is now apparent that Hoboken can expect this crowd on the first Saturday of March, with or without the Parade. Nevertheless, if we work together to properly manage that crowd, I’m confident it can be handled to the optimum benefit of the common good.
I look forward to incorporating future events with a restored Parade celebration.
I am exceedingly grateful for the City’s enthusiastic support of the Hoboken Irish Cultural Festival. Furthermore, after a phone conversation last week, I’m appreciative of Hoboken St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee member Helen Cunning’s recognition of the merit of this event. I’m also grateful to the members of the Hoboken Hospitality Association who have come forward to lend their support.
The inaugural Hoboken Irish Cultural Festival will be held Wednesday, March 14 from 4-10 pm at Sinatra Park on Hoboken’s scenic waterfront.
The event will include a demonstration of the Gaelic sport of Hurling by the Hoboken Guards, traditional Irish Step Dancers, and live music.
The event is free to the public. Guinness, Harp and Smithwick’s ales have been donated by Peerless Beverage. The Piper’s Cove/Argyle Restaurant will be on hand vending Fish & Chips as well as other traditional Celtic fare. Proceeds from concessions will be donated via the Dr. Atlas Foundation to the Hoboken Shelter for the homeless and the Hoboken American Legion Post 107.
I hope to see you all on Wednesday, March 14.
Sincerely:
Christopher M. Halleron
Organizer
Hoboken Irish Cultural Festival