About Us

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The Boquerón St. Patrick's Day Parade has been a cherished tradition since 1986. It all started when Margie Nelson, the owner of McGuire's Bar (later Tony's Place, and now The Copy), returned from a trip to New York with typical St. Patrick’s Day decorations. With help from another American couple, the True’s, Margie painted a green stripe down the middle of Jose de Diego Street, stretching from the old Shamar’s Bar to McGuire’s. Soon after, a few Irish American residents joined in, parading through the village, donning green attire, and toasting Irish beer.

When Galloway's Bar & Restaurant opened in 1990, Gladys Carlo Galloway and her Irish American husband, Donald Galloway, continued the festive spirit, ensuring the tradition of the parade lived on.

Today, the Boquerón St. Patrick's Day Parade has grown into a vibrant event, attracting a large crowd of participants clad in green. The parade is led by the native Puerto Rican bagpiper from San Sebastián, dressed in full attire. The procession features a Grand Marshall, a Queen, a bodhrán drum player, and a “float” in the form of a convertible car. One of the highlights is the famous “Potato Gun” Shooting-Team, who launches potatoes over Boquerón Bay to the delight of the crowd.

This parade is not just a celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, but a tribute to the many individuals and businesses who have supported the event over the years. It's a celebration of community, culture, and fun!

In later years, the tradition expanded to include an annual golf tournament, held at Club Deportivo Del Oeste. This fun-filled 18-hole event attracts nearly 100 participants each year. Following the round of golf, the day culminates in a festive dinner and an awards ceremony, where the coveted “Brown Jacket” is awarded to the winner. As always, “All decisions of the rules committee are final” – ensuring a fair, fun competition for all involved.

Both the parade and the golf tournament reflect the spirit of camaraderie, celebration, and community that has come to define the Boquerón St. Patrick's Day Celebration.

Do you have any personal stories or memories from the parade or tournament?

We are seeking donations to help fund the prizes for the golf tournament, as well as cover the costs associated with putting on this fantastic parade. We can't achieve our goals without the generosity of friends like you, and we would be incredibly grateful for your sponsorship.

As a token of our appreciation, we would love to feature your company’s logo on our event website and signage. Additionally, we’d be happy to promote any specials or offers you would like to share with the parade-goers.

Your sponsorship will help us continue this great tradition, and we look forward to the opportunity to partner with you to make the Boquerón St. Patrick’s Celebration truly special.

Thank you in advance for your support, and we hope to see you at the event!

Sincerely,
The Boquerón St. Patrick's Celebration Committee