Rumson Scraps 2021 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Over COVID Concerns

RUMSON, NJ - Virtually no community event has been left untouched since the coronavirus pandemic began shaking New Jersey communities in March 2020. From Halloween parades to festive winter concerts to municipal celebrations, a slew of local events have been altered, postponed or cancelled altogether. The Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade - which was held in 2020 - has recently been added to the growing list of cancellations in 2021.

The Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, in conjunction with Rumson Town Council and health department, announced this year’s cancelation:

“Unfortunately, in light of the continued health pandemic, the Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, in conjunction with Rumson Town Council and health department, has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” wrote Board of Trustees member Jamie McManus.

According to McManus’ letter, more than $200,000 was raised over the past year for local organizations, including mental health recovery center Shore House NJ, in what the trustee called a “fundraising milestone.”

“Although we cannot gather to celebrate together, we are grateful for your support in helping the Parade achieve this significant milestone and to continue to fund the important services Shore House NJ and local organizations in the Rumson area provide to our community,” McManus said.

“On behalf of the Parade Board of Trustees, we urge you all to stay safe, and we look forward to celebrating together with you at the 2022 Parade.”

The annual Belmar/Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade will also not be held due to public health concerns.

"Unfortunately but not surprisingly, the 2021 parade cannot be held due to COVID-19. The parade committee is exploring options for other types of celebrations this season, so stay tuned for updates. Thank you as always for your support," organizers wrote on Facebook Jan. 6.

The parade has reportedly grown into one of the largest parades in New Jersey with around 6,000 participants, over 40 bands and around 200,000 observers, according to TAPInto Holmdel.