Sunday, March 11, NOON Philadelphia’s 242nd St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 16th & JFK Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa 19103 (Outside, dress warm) 2012 Philadelphia St Patrick’s Day Parade Sunday March 11, 2012 Congratulations to our 2012 Grand Marshal John J. Dougherty Business Manager IBEW Local 98 Parade Theme: ST. PATRICK, BLESS THE AMERICAN WORKER. Each year the Saint Patrick's Day Observance Association hosts the parade on the Sunday prior to St. Patrick's Day unless March 17th falls on Sunday. When March 17th falls on a Sunday, the parade is held on March 17th, St. Patrick's Feast Day. Throughout the years this celebration has honored this religious and cultural celebration. Thousands of marchers and spectators in their green bedecked finery, the bands and floats, the flags and music highlight one of the grandest parades in a city that loves parades.