St. Patrick’s Day parade set for March 14 in Michigan City; 'Paddy Wagon' shuttle will benefit Meals on Wheels of LaPorte County

Michigan City’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade will step off Saturday, March 14, at 1:00 p.m. on Franklin Street, organizers said on the Access LaPorte County program. Lineup begins at noon; the route will run north on Franklin from 9th Street to 4th Street.

“Lineup starts at noon... It starts at 1:00,” said Eric Williams, Michigan City special events coordinator. Williams and host Drew White said this year’s parade is up to about 60 participants, up from about 45 last year.

Organizers highlighted several entries, including a Real Housewives of LaPorte County non-perishable food drive (recipient not fully specified in the broadcast) and the Michiana Humane Society, which is expected to bring adoptable dogs. Traditional participants named by the hosts include the Michigan City Soul Steppers, the Michiana Clowns, local police and fire departments, and pipe-band music from the Caledonia Kilty Pipe Band.

The event will be followed by the Paddy Wagon shuttle, hosted by the St. Joe Club. The shuttle is scheduled to run roughly 2:00–9:00 p.m., serving about 15 or more participating bars. “At only $15 a person,” the hosts said, patrons can ride rather than drive. Organizers said proceeds from the Paddy Wagon will benefit Meals on Wheels of LaPorte County.

The parade comes as the community enters election season; the hosts noted that candidates for office often use events like the parade to meet voters. The show’s hosts encouraged residents to attend the parade and the post-parade shuttle.

Officials asked attendees to consult Michigan City special events for last-minute details, street-closure information and any weather-related changes.