Belmar St. Patrick's Day Parade
New Jersey's LARGEST St. Patrick's Day parade brings 6,700+ marchers and 100,000 spectators to the Irish Riviera. A beloved tradition since 1974.
2026 Parade at a Glance
Sun, March 1
Parade Date
12:30 PM
Step-off Time
Main Street
Parade Route
FREE
Admission
About the Belmar Parade
Since 1974, the Belmar-Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade has grown into the largest celebration of its kind in New Jersey. Known as the parade of the "Irish Riviera," this beloved tradition honors the deep Irish-American roots of Monmouth County's shore communities.
The 51st annual parade in 2026 promises to be spectacular, with over 6,700 marchers including 17 pipe bands and 12 marching bands. Floats, Irish step dancers, local organizations, politicians, and thousands of spectators clad in green line Main Street for what has become the unofficial start to the St. Patrick's Day season at the Jersey Shore.
By the Numbers
6,700+
Marchers
17
Pipe Bands
12
Marching Bands
100K+
Spectators
Parade Day Schedule
Best Viewing Spots
Main Street
The parade marches the length of Main Street from 16th Avenue through Lake Como. Any spot along Main Street offers great views. Arrive early and bring folding chairs.
Tips
- • Arrive 1-2 hours early for the best spots
- • Near 10th Ave is less crowded
- • Bring folding chairs or blankets
- • Dress warmly - it's still winter!
Getting There
🚂 NJ Transit (Recommended)
Extra trains run on the North Jersey Coast Line for the parade. The Belmar station is a short walk to Main Street. Check NJTransit.com for the parade day schedule.
🚗 Driving & Parking
Belmar Marina has the most parking but fills early. Street parking is limited and competitive. If driving, arrive before 10 AM or expect a long walk.
Week of Celebrations
The parade is the main event, but Belmar celebrates Irish heritage all week:
St. Patrick's Day 5K Race
Race weekend
Popular pre-parade event
Irish Soda Bread Contest
Parade week
Local tradition
Pub Crawl
Saturday before
Multiple venues
Post-Parade Celebrations
Bar Anticipation
Lake Como
The legendary Bar A goes all out with week-long celebrations
D'Jais
Belmar
Live music and St. Patrick's Day specials
10th Avenue Burrito
Belmar
Great food, festive atmosphere
Matisse
Belmar
Upscale option with parade day specials
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Belmar St. Patrick's Day Parade?
The 51st Annual Belmar-Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade is Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 12:30 PM.
Why is the Belmar parade so famous?
The Belmar-Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade is New Jersey's largest, featuring over 6,700 marchers, 17 pipe bands, and 12 marching bands. It draws approximately 100,000 spectators and has been a tradition since 1974.
What is the parade route?
The parade marches down Main Street in Belmar and Lake Como. Best viewing spots are along Main Street between 16th Avenue and the Lake Como border.
Is there parking for the Belmar parade?
Belmar Marina is the recommended parking location. Street parking fills up very early. Consider arriving before 10 AM for the best spots, or take NJ Transit.
Does NJ Transit run extra trains for the parade?
Yes! NJ Transit adds extra trains on the North Jersey Coast Line for the Belmar St. Patrick's Day Parade. Check NJTransit.com for the parade day schedule.
What time should I arrive for a good viewing spot?
For the best viewing spots, arrive 1-2 hours before the 12:30 PM start time. Bring folding chairs as the parade can last over 2 hours.
Join 100,000 Spectators!
Experience New Jersey's largest St. Patrick's Day celebration in the Irish Riviera.