A longtime community volunteer has been named grand marshal of this year’s Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Shawn Cleary received the honor after being nominated by a group of former grand marshals.
Organizers say Cleary has played a role in planning the annual parade for the past 16 years. He’s also involved with several Sioux Falls nonprofits including Bishop Dudley Hospitality House and the Multicultural Center.
“We all want to be able to celebrate our heritage,” Cleary said. “We’re all Americans, but we also want to honor our immigrant roots, our families, and our cultural traditions. Many Irish families hold reunions this time of year. Really, it’s about helping people celebrate a day of joy and the arrival of spring.”
The parade takes place March 15 in downtown Sioux Falls.
Anyone wishing to submit an entry in the parade must register by March 6. Information about registering as well as other details about the event are available on the DTSF website.