Henderson goes green for St. Patrick’s Day festival —PHOTOS
A sea of green showed up on Water Street in downtown Henderson on Saturday to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
The second day of a three-day celebration featured the 49th annual parade and festival presented by the Southern Nevada Sons &Daughters of Erin.
Hundreds gathered along Water Street to watch the floats and Irish step dancers and listen to the bagpipes on a warm spring day.
Sasha and David Barthelme of Las Vegas have attended the parade for the past few years.
“It’s huge; it wasn’t like this last year,” Sasha said of the turnout.
“We look forward to seeing the mayor and local celebrities,” David said. “We’ll probably grab a green beer afterwards to celebrate.”
Katie Roop, who is staying in the Las Vegas area for the winter in an effort to escape the cold weather in Ohio, attended the parade for the first time.
“I was surprised how many people I talked to didn’t know about the parade,” she said. “I love the floats and listening to the bands play.”
Roop said she’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends.
“I’m going to cook a big dinner of corned beef and cabbage,” she said. “It’s different this year because it’s during the week, so it’s harder to celebrate.”
Sean Sheehan joined his girlfriend, Stephanie Schmal, and her two daughters on Water Street.
“It’s a great turnout, and the weather is beautiful,” Schmal said. “We’ll definitely wear green on St. Patrick’s Day and make corned beef and cabbage.”
Henderson resident Cassandra Silva took her mother-in-law Janelda Silva to the parade for the first time.
“I’m impressed; I’m glad to see such a big turnout,” Janelda said. “I came out to celebrate with the crowd on this beautiful day.”
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures reached 81 degrees Saturday. Today is expected to be even warmer with highs in the mid-80s.
The celebration will continue with live entertainment and a carnival today starting at noon at Henderson Events Plaza, 200 Water St.
For more information, visit www.cityofhenderson.com.
Contact Ann Friedman at 702-380-4588 or afriedman@reviewjournal.com. Find her on Twitter: @AnnFriedmanRJ.
