In the bustling realm of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, cities like New York and Chicago stand out with their grand parades, drawing throngs of party-goers and endless flows of green-tinted beverages. Amid these festivities, an unexpected contender in Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers a unique twist with its distinctly short parade route. Famous for its mineral-laden waters, this resort town has carved out a niche by hosting what it proudly dubs the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a delightful spectacle spanning merely 98 feet (30 meters).
On a recent Monday, the city’s narrow streets filled with enthusiastic onlookers, drawn to an event that has grown into a significant attraction over the past twenty years. This diminutive yet vibrant parade attracts both locals and visitors while catching the attention of celebrities. This year’s parade saw the participation of actress Valerie Bertinelli and rap legend Flavor Flav, adding star power to the festivities.
The story of how Hot Springs’ parade came to be is an intriguing one. Steve Arrison, CEO of Visit Hot Springs, recounted how it all started in 2003. A casual discussion about St. Patrick’s Day over drinks at a local eatery led to a simple yet compelling question: “Why don’t we have a parade?” Thus, the following year, the first parade was held, drawing a crowd of approximately 1,500 spectators. Fast forward to the present, and the event now captivates more than 30,000 people annually.
Despite its short length, the parade is rich in attractions. It showcases 40 floats and features a unique ensemble known as the International Order of the Marching Irish Elvi, composed of 100 Elvis Presley impersonators. Another highlight includes members of the local chapter of the International Society of Helen Ropers, who delight the crowd dressed as characters from the iconic 1970s sitcom “Three’s Company.”
Each year, the parade appoints a celebrity to grace the role of grand marshal and parade starter, a position previously held by notable personalities such as actor Kevin Bacon, “Cheers” star George Wendt, and country musician Justin Moore. This year, Bertinelli took on the role of grand marshal, while Flavor Flav embraced his duties as the official starter.
Flavor Flav’s participation added a spirited touch as he donned a customized green version of his trademark clock necklace, connecting with his fans while dancing and interacting throughout the parade. “I can have fun in a five-foot parade. Ninety-eight feet gives me a little bit more time to have more fun,” he expressed enthusiastically prior to the event.
Additional entertainment was provided by the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, who joined the parade’s festivities by tossing beads to the vibrant crowds. The event extended beyond the parade itself, encompassing a concert and a “Blarney Stone kissing contest.” Prior to the commencement of the parade, an official measurement of the route was conducted to ensure its status as the shortest. A bugler from a local horse track and casino marked the start with a ceremonial tune.
For some attendees like Chuck Last from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, this unique celebration in Hot Springs is unmatched, even compared to larger gatherings in cities like Chicago and Savannah, Georgia. “I’ve been to Chicago, I’ve been to Savannah, Georgia. I like this one better than any of them,” he remarked enthusiastically.
Other cities have attempted to claim the title of having the shortest parade. Among them, two New York cities have sparred over similar claims, and in Bemidji, Minnesota, a 78-pace parade was held on the same day. However, Hot Springs maintains a friendly rivalry with Adamsville, Rhode Island, disputing their claim of an 89-foot (27-meter) route by pointing out that their parade takes place a day before St. Patrick’s Day. To assert its position, Hot Springs proudly holds the copyright to the title “World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.”