JCI GREATER MUSKEGON CELEBRATES 13TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE IN DOWNTOWN MUSKEGON
Muskegon, MI – Put on your green and gather your family and friends for one of downtown Muskegon’s favorite traditions! On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the 13th Annual Muskegon St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off at 11 a.m., traveling from 6th Street along Western Avenue to 1st Street. The parade continues its mission of celebrating Muskegon’s rich Irish heritage while bringing the community together for a festive day filled with music, color, and camaraderie.
Hosted by JCI Greater Muskegon, this family-friendly event will feature an exciting lineup of local businesses, community organizations, schools, and performance groups. Spectators can expect lively Irish music, creative floats, marching units, and plenty of shamrock spirit throughout the downtown corridor.
This year, the parade proudly honors Sue Donovan as Grand Marshal. Sue is the wife of the late Kevin Donovan, a longtime Muskegon advocate, dedicated Rotarian, former president of the Muskegon Irish American Society, a founder of the Michigan Irish American Hall of Fame, and a longtime member of the Michigan Irish Music Festival. Kevin’s passion and leadership helped shape and strengthen Muskegon’s Irish community for decades. Naming Sue as Grand Marshal is a tribute to Kevin’s lasting legacy and the Donovan family’s enduring impact on our community.
In keeping with the parade’s tradition of giving back, attendees and marchers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations to support Mission for Area People (MAP). MAP serves poor and underserved residents of Muskegon County through its Healthy Choice Food Pantry, Free Clothing Pantry, rent and utility assistance, and help with essential medical and dental expenses. Volunteers will be stationed along the parade route to collect donations for local families in need.
“The parade is a celebration of our community’s Irish heritage, and we are incredibly grateful for the continued support that keeps this beloved tradition alive.” said McKenna Grennan, President of JCI Greater Muskegon. “This year, we are especially honored to commemorate the legacy of Kevin Donovan by welcoming his wife, Sue Donovan, as our Grand Marshal. As a dedicated supporter of the Irish community and this parade, Kevin’s impact will not be forgotten, and we are proud to honor his and his family’s legacy in our community.”
Also happening in downtown Muskegon that day is the Shamrock Shuffle 5K organized by Run Muskegon, and a full day of live music and entertainment at Unruly Brewing Co.