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Raleigh St. Patricks Day Parade Logo

Our Story

The Raleigh St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee is made up of several dedicated individuals who volunteer their time and efforts to bring a fabulous parade to Raleigh each March. The Parade is supported by volunteer donations of time and talents as well as money and in kind from many individuals and businesses.

The expenses to put on the parade are many, so please consider giving a donation or becoming a sponsor!

The Committee members are thankful for all support!


The parade started in 1983 with a dozen or so enthusiastic Irish-Americans marching down Wilmington St. to the delight and curiosity of downtown residents, merchants and shoppers. The parade was organized initially by John McIntyre and Gail Massari. John and Gail kept the parade going and growing until 1988 when John was transferred to Germany. Prior to leaving for Germany they asked Raleigh's Friends of Ireland (FOI) organization to continue the work they started. The FOI board agreed to organize the parade. Frank Mellage became involved with the parade at that time. He served on the Parade committee from 1989-1992 and became Chairman of the committee for the 1993 St. Patrick's Day Parade.  In 2000 an independent Raleigh Saint Patrick's Day Parade Committee was formed with members from other local Irish organizations.  Frank continued as Committee Chair until 2012, and now the Chair is held by Dianne Enright who served on the Committee under Frank since 2001.  The 2024 Parade will be the 40th!

Grand Marshal


Grand Marshal 2024

Jeff Hogan is a news anchor and on-air journalist for WRAL News. He currently appears in WRAL Morning and Noon news and is a longtime figure in broadcast journalism, renowned for his dedication and versatility across news and sports reporting. His journey in the media industry spans over three decades, marked by a steadfast commitment to delivering insightful and impactful stories to his audience. Starting his career in 1992 at KOSA-TV in Odessa, TX, Jeff quickly established himself as a proficient sports anchor and reporter. His passion for storytelling and commitment to excellence led him to WBNS-TV in Columbus, OH, where he transitioned from sports to news anchoring, leaving a significant mark during his tenure from 1998 to 2018.

In 2018, Jeff embraced a new chapter as a News Anchor and Reporter at WRAL-TV, where he continues to captivate audiences with his engaging delivery and profound insights into current events. Throughout his career, Jeff's contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including Emmy and Associated Press awards, underscoring his exceptional talent and dedication to journalistic integrity.

A proud graduate of the University of Rhode Island, Jeff's roots trace back to Milford, PA, where his journey in journalism began. Beyond the newsroom, Jeff is an avid endurance athlete, finding solace and challenge in triathlons and ultra-marathons across North Carolina. He also shares a deep commitment to community involvement, particularly in supporting differently-abled athletes in reaching their full potential.

Jeff Hogan 2024 Grand Marshal

Jeff's family, including his wife, two teenage daughters, and beloved golden retriever, Harley, provide him with unwavering support and inspiration. As a dedicated member of the Raleigh community, Jeff embraces the vibrant culture and rich landscapes of North Carolina, continuously seeking to uncover and share the stories of its people. From traversing beaches to exploring mountain trails, Jeff's adventures reflect his genuine curiosity and appreciation for the beauty of the Tar Heel State.

In his spare time, Jeff enjoys engaging with people and hearing their remarkable stories, embodying his belief that every encounter holds the potential for inspiration and connection. With a penchant for adventure and a genuine passion for storytelling, Jeff Hogan remains a steadfast voice in the ever-evolving landscape of broadcast journalism.

Past Grand Marshals
2023 Sandra Holland, Raleigh Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)
2022 David Ira Wood III, Actor and Theater Director
2021 Parade cancelled due to Pandemic
2020 Parade cancelled due to Pandemic
2019 Don Schwenneker, Meteorologist ABC 11 Eyewitness News
2018 Bill Leslie, WRAL Newscaster and Celtic Musician
2017 Annie Nice, Tir na nOg
2016 Kelly McGrath O'Doherty, NC Rose of Tralee Director
2015 Jerry Parnell, Lead Piper
2014 John McGrath, Raleigh Fire Chief
2013 Frank Mellage, Former Parade Director
2012 Nancy McFarlane, Raleigh Mayor
2011 Ed Cody, Raleigh Humanitarian
2010 Bill Reh, NBC 17 Meteorologist
2009 Tom O'Brien, NC State University Football Coach
2008 Harry Patrick Dolan, Raleigh Police Chief
2007 Debra Morgan, WRAL Anchor/Reporter
2006 Richard H. Moore, NC State Treasurer
2005 Steve McLaurin, McLaurin Parking
2004 Bill Gaines, NBC 17 Anchor/Reporter
2003 Charles Meeker, Raleigh Mayor
2002 Jane Perlov, Raleigh Police Chief
2001 Sharon Delaney, NBC 17 Anchor/Reporter
2000 Paul Coble, Raleigh Mayor
1999 Kieran J. Shanahan, Raleigh City Council
1998 Donna Gregory, NBC 17 Anchor/Reporter
1997 Sylvia Wiggins, Helping Hand Mission Director
1996 Pam Saulsby, WRAL Anchor/Reporter
1995 Tom Fetzer, Raleigh Mayor
1994 Fred Heineman, Raleigh Police Chief
1993 David Allen, Fox Anchor/Reporter
1992 John McIntyre, Parade Founder

What They're Saying


I had no problem parking and the parade was very unique. I loved all the pups and cars. The dance groups and bands were great too.



Parking was a breeze. Parade was great, people friendly, not too crowded. Entire family had a great time. Definitely attending next year 🍀




(From cancelling in 2020 due to the pandemic)
Thank you for all of your hard work in advance of the event. Our entire family has attended every year and although we will miss the event, we certainly understand.



We love this parade!