Parade Theme

This year’s Parade theme: Heritage, Home and Hope embodies the values, history and foundation of the annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade now in its 72nd year.

The Heritage aspect of the Parade theme is interwoven within cherished Irish traditions and family roots dating back to when Irish immigrants came to the Chicago area in the 1800s. Today, these Irish-American communities are known for their beloved traditions, love of community, and their welcoming spirit. Irish heritage is a distinct part of the fabric of the city and surrounding area with examples from everything from the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, to the annual iconic River Dyeing, Old St. Pat’s Church, the Irish American Heritage Center, the Irish Fellowship Club of Chicago, the Shannon Rovers Pipe Band (the 2026 Parade Guest of Honor) and favorite local Irish pubs and restaurants, and multiple local Irish dance companies. The list goes on and on…

The Parade theme concept of Home directly relates to the life-changing services offered at the Chicago-based Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. The 2027 Parade Grand Marshal, Rev. L. Scott Donahue, has been President & CEO of this transformative non-profit organization since 2006, and under his direction and vision, it remains a steadfast and important local resource that provides children and families with healing and tools to build brighter futures. It provides children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or violence, a safe home, educational support, and career guidance.

Since 1887, Mercy Home has been a place to heal from the past and where children can grow into independent adults and leave their own mark on the world. As a Catholic children’s charity, their healing mission on behalf of children and families is rooted in faith and dedicated to helping those in their most critical hour. Mercy Home also assists hundreds more children and families by connecting them to a vast network of accredited professional service agencies throughout metropolitan Chicago. They also offer former residents the resources they need to succeed beyond our home. And they connect kids with mentors who help them navigate the often challenging path through adolescence.

The concept of Hope that is highlighted in the Parade theme is something that Mercy Home for Boys and Girls offers to so many in need throughout the year. Their incredible work goes a long way to preserve and offer Hope for so many young people and their families during times of adversity or challenge.

As we proudly look forward to the 2027 Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade and River Dyeing, we also reflect on and honor the Heritage, Home, and Hope that surrounds us, embraces our values and history and provides a foundation for the future generations to come.