The St. Patrick's Day Parade on Fifth Avenue is a New York City's tradition. The Parade marched for the first time 247 years ago, on March 17, 1762 - fourteen Years before the Declaration of Independence. The parade is held to honor the Patron Saint of Ireland and the Archdiocese of New York and celebrates Irish Faith and heritage. The Parade is reviewed by His Eminence Cardinal Edward Eagan, Archbishop of New York in the same manner as the Archbishop of New York did in the early days of the Parade at the Old St. Patrick's Cathedral in Lower Manhattan. The St. Patrick's Day Parade remains true to its roots as a true marchers Parade by not allowing floats, automobiles and other commercial aspects in the Parade.The Parade is held every March 17th except when March 17th falls on a Sunday; it is celebrated the day before, Saturday the 16th, because of religious observances.