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Islip’s Main Street is about to turn green.
The very first Islip Irish Day Parade will step off on Sunday, Sept. 21, bringing a new tradition to downtown that celebrates the town’s Irish heritage while uniting the community through music, dance and local pride, it was just announced.
The parade will start at 2 p.m. at Islip Town Hall West and run east along Main Street.
Marchers, floats, and local groups will fill the route, with plenty of Irish music and live performances for spectators lining the streets, the announcement reads.
At the heart of the inaugural event is the Gerhard family of Islip, who were named the First Grand Family of the parade. Their son, Jesse Gerhard, served with the Islip Fire Department and the FDNY before tragically dying in the line of duty in 2022.
In his honor, the family created the Jesse Gerhard Memorial Foundation, which continues his legacy of service by supporting those in need. Organizers say the Gerhards’ resilience and compassion embody the spirit of the parade.
The celebration won’t end with the last marcher. Afterward, Main Street businesses will welcome guests, with Harp & Hound — Islip’s well-known Irish pub — serving traditional food, pints, and live entertainment at the center of the festivities.
Organizers hope the Islip Irish Day Parade will grow into an annual tradition.
Follow along
Top: Main Street in Islip looking west. (Mike White/GLI file photo) Inset: Jesse Gerhard/FDNY
