Photo Credit: Anthony Cassetta
Wantagh's 5th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, the largest on Long Island, was held on Sunday, March 16th with the NCPD estimating an attendance of 65,000 people.
Photo Credit: Terry Ballard
March 20th, 2025
Written by Andrea Chen
According to the Nassau County Police Department, an estimated 65,000 people came out on Sunday for Wantagh's 5th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade even with the possibility of rain, which turned out to be clear skies for most of the duration of the event. There were more than 127 small businesses, local organizations, schools, bands, nonprofits and partners organized into eight divisions that marched down Wantagh Avenue for approximately 1.3 miles. Nassau County PBA President Tommy Shevlin was this year's Grand Marshal. The NCPD, MTA Police Department and local fire departments oversaw parking and safety throughout the day, while the block parties layout was designed by Long Island Architecture Studio, DPC.
The line up began at Wantagh High School with festive St. Patrick's Day displays from John Theissen Children's Foundation, GO Palm Trees and many more, along with amazing performances by Show Stompin' Irish Dance and the Wantagh American Legion Pipe Band.
This year added a second back lot party on Park Avenue, just steps away from the block party in front of Mulcahy's, the Wantagh Inn and Uncle Frank's. The back lot party was located behind Boss Croker's, Craft Kitchen & Taphouse, The Irish Poet, Lifestyles Sports and Lulu's Organic Juice Bar. Balloons by Lou hosted Paddy's Playland for kids; additional special features included Metrocade video game truck and a hair tinsel and glitter bar. Attendees enjoyed food trucks, vendors, outdoor bars, live music and kids' activities. Visitors from out of town were able to access the event via the Wantagh Long Island Railroad Train Station with extra trains added.
This community event overseen by the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce and legislators also had the support of more than thirteen sponsors and countless volunteers. Since Wantagh's 1st annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2019 that already drew crowds of more than 50,000, this community event has become increasingly popular with both locals and visitors, remaining a beloved tradition shared with family, friends and neighbors.
