Marching Forward Together
Support the Tradition. Embrace the Legacy.
The Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade and Road Race have been cherished celebrations of Irish heritage, community pride, and togetherness for over 70 years. Each year, these beloved events bring joy to tens of thousands while generating an impressive $20 million in economic impact for local businesses and organizations.
But the costs to host these incredible events are significant—more than $500,000 annually. These funds cover essential expenses such as marching bands, mummers, logistics, public safety, and the televised broadcast that connects us to the world. And thanks to the tremendous generosity of our long-standing sponsors, we’re able to meet these annual costs.
This year, we’re launching the Marching Forward Appeal to ensure that these traditions remain vibrant for future generations.
Why Now?
We face an unprecedented challenge in 2025. The bankruptcy of the former road race timing company, 4Run3, has created unforeseen legal and financial burdens. For the first time in our history, we are turning to our community with an annual public appeal to help sustain our events.
Together, we can overcome these challenges and preserve the spirit of resilience and celebration that defines the Holyoke community.
How You Can Help
Donate: Every dollar helps us March Forward.
Share: Spread the word with friends, family, and your network.
Engage: Attend our fundraisers or join the Parade Committee.
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, your donation is tax-deductible.
Why It Matters
The Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade and Road Race are more than events—they are part of our collective identity. They’re a place where heritage is honored, traditions are celebrated, and memories are made.
Your support will ensure that these cherished traditions endure.
Are you a business interested in becoming a sponsor? Click here.
Becoming a sponsor transforms your generosity into a strategic business decision! Each year, sponsorship dollars directly fund the Parade, Road Race, and all of the surrounding logistics. Our sponsors are our annual partners in this effort! Sponsorship offers your business tangible benefits like enhanced brand visibility, targeted marketing opportunities, networking, community engagement, AND tickets to our Sponsorship Appreciation Tent on Parade Day.
Donations
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Hosting the Parade and Road Race isn’t just about the magic on Parade Weekend—it’s about months of preparation and significant resources. Each year, it costs over $500,000 to ensure the seamless execution of these beloved events. These funds cover essentials like marching bands, entertainment, logistics, operations, and public safety. From the music to the mummers to the iconic block party, every detail comes with a cost, but it’s all worth it to keep this cherished tradition alive.
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The Committee’s costs fall into three primary categories:
Marching Bands and Entertainment:
The Committee covers the fees for all musical groups and entertainers, including travel, performance costs, and accommodations. As one of the most prominent televised parades, the broadcast is also a significant expense.Holyoke Road Race Operations:
Organizing the 6.2-mile Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race, which leads into the largest block party in New England, involves extensive resources. From race timing to event logistics, every detail is managed by the Committee in partnership with our long-time sponsor, PeoplesBank.Logistics and Safety:
Parade Weekend involves close coordination with city, state, and federal officials to ensure public safety and a great experience for spectators. The Committee funds key logistics like safety barriers, radio communications, porta-potties, and other infrastructure to keep the event running smoothly.
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The Parade is made possible by a passionate team of unpaid volunteers who work year-round to raise the necessary funds. Our funding comes from three main sources:
Corporate Sponsorships: Generous support from local businesses and organizations.
Community Fundraisers: Events like the Michael T. Ahearn Memorial Golf Tournament, Marshal Mania, Battle of the Bars, and more.
Holyoke Road Race Revenue: This event has historically been our largest fundraiser.
If you or your business would like to become a sponsor, please contact our Sponsor Chair, Kelly McGiverin, at kellymcgiverin@yahoo.com.
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This year, the Parade Committee is navigating unexpected financial challenges due to the bankruptcy of our former road race timing company, 4Run3. While these legal proceedings continue, the resulting financial burden has put our organization in a difficult position.
For over 70 years, we’ve proudly delivered these events without needing to appeal to the public for direct donations. However, this situation requires us to humbly ask for your support to safeguard the future of the Parade and Road Race.
Looking ahead, we’re also working to diversify our revenue streams through grants, additional sponsorships, and an annual donation appeal to ensure the long-term sustainability of these treasured events.
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Yes! The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
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There are so many ways to get involved! You can:
Volunteer: Join the Parade Committee and help with planning and organizing.
Attend Fundraising Events: Check out our Events Calendar to see upcoming opportunities.
Spread the Word: Share this appeal with your friends, family, and network.
We also invite you to visit our new online merchandise store to show your support in other ways!
Together, we can March Forward and ensure that the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade and Road Race continue to unite and inspire future generations.
Spread the Word
Maybe you want to honor your heritage. Maybe you want to give back to your community. Or maybe you simply love being part of something bigger. Whatever it is, how you support and share our story can make all the difference.