Irish eyes were smiling in Cutchogue on Saturday and the hamlet was bedecked in green as crowds turned out for the 10th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Blue, sunny skies and balmy temps set the stage for the annual event — hosted by the Cutchogue Fire Department and the North Fork Chamber of Commerce — that brought out scores of lasses and lads, young and old, decked out in emerald attire from head to toe, with a bright array of blarney-themed green hats, tutus, sweaters and shillelaghs.
The Cutchogue Fire Department named two of its longtime firefighters, Everett and Allan Glover, as co-grand marshals of the 2014 Cutchogue St. Patrick’s Day parade; both are ex-chiefs and third generation CFD firefighters who have been active volunteers for over 50 years.
The parade began at Cox Lane and headed west to Cutchogue village; many headed to the Cutchogue firehouse after the festivities for food and bagpipes.
When asked what made the event such a beloved outing, Cutchogue residents echoed similar sentiments.
“I like the music and the floats,” said Ana Farr, 10, of Cutchogue.
“And the firetrucks,” added Owen Orlowski, 7.
Maddy Cavaluzzi, of Riverhead, said the event epitomized the spirit of small-town values. “It’s about being together and having a good time.”
Clapping and cheering for marching bands and Scouts, fire trucks and floats, family members waved proudly as they spotted loved ones in the procession. Sandy Berry of Southold said she loved the parade, mainly, “Because my husband is in it.”
Mo Berry had a particular affinity for the bagpipes.
The parade also featured music by local favorite Who Are Those Guys, dance performances, and a bright array of vintage cars — as well as horses, costumed characters, and pups from the North Fork Animal Welfare League, all sporting green.
Lisa Fox, president of the Mattituck-Cutchogue PTA, said the parade brimmed with hometown pride and values. “My kids are running around the street, and I feel safe. It’s all about community.”
SoutholdLOCAL photos by Katie Blasl and Peter Blasl
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