The United Irish Cultural Center joined local organizations, cultural groups, and artists to share stories through music, dance, and visual art in the 174th annual San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade, on Saturday past (March 15).
Celebrating the theme 'The Immigrant’s Story', the parade honored the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of immigrants, Irish and otherwise, to both the city and the nation.
The parade boasted a colorful array of floats, marching bands, traditional Irish dancers, and community groups and served as a multi-sensory reminder of the enduring spirit of inclusion and the ongoing story of people finding new homes, new opportunities, and new beginnings in San Francisco.
Marking its 50th Anniversary Season in 2025, the UICC was well represented in the parade and was delighted to take first place in their category. Leading the parade up Market Street to City Hall was Laois-man Grand Marshal Mark Gorman, UICC friend, volunteer, and board member. He was joined by the families of the honorary grand marshals —UICC community members who have passed on—Jerry Cassidy, Margaret Gavney, and Sr. Edith Hurley.
On the UICC float, which celebrated the spirit of Ireland in San Francisco through visuals and messaging, was Golden State Warriors hype-man Franco Finn, pumping up the crowd and upholding UICC themes of heritage, culture, and building for the future.
GREEN TEAM: Liam Reidy of UICC with San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie
The float featured several young cultural ambassadors of the vibrant Irish community—reigning San Francisco Rose, Maggie Baglin; a rising star on the trad scene, Shane Reidy; and representing the many Irish dancers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area was Brooklyn Cooper from the Healy School of Irish Dance. Franco also shared his own immigrant story of his late Irish father and Filipino mother and was a passionate spokesman for today’s Irish.
And the Parade allowed the UICC to honor the legacy of its own immigrant volunteers who built their center 50 years ago.
"With origins in San Francisco dating back to the late 1800s and officially opening their doors on 45th Avenue 50 years ago, the United Irish Cultural Center thrives today as an important cultural institution committed to celebrating, promoting, and preserving the rich culture and heritage of Ireland," said Center President Liam Reidy. "Through cultural programming and vibrant youth programs we honor the legacy of the Irish immigrants and Irish Americans and chronicle their immense contributions throughout the San Francisco Bay. We are proud to call these immigrants ancestors, family, and friends. These are the shoulders upon which the UICC community stands as it builds for the future with plans for an incredible new building in their Outer Sunset location."
Reidy issued an open invite to visitors to the Golden Gate City to visit the Center on 45th Ave in San Francisco’s westside.
