It’s small.
It’s silly.
And it’s back for 2022 and is an Irish-style blast.
The annual Hermosa Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Saturday, March 11 in 2023 – is only about a dozen blocks and lasts but a couple of hours.
But it’s this lack of hugeness that makes it so appealing. Instead of having to plan things out days (or weeks) in advance as in the case in places like Chicago and arrive early in order to secure a good spot along the route, it’s possible to just show up and enjoy the scene.
And what a scene! There are bagpipe bands. Vendors selling shamrocks and other Irish “goodies.” Floats and characters. I’ve been it it with Beach Cities Bike Tours as part of the Hermosa Cyclery group and launched PubClub LIVE!, three years ago from the balcony of Tower 12 during the parade.
People line up on both sides of the streets (Pier and Hermosa Avenues), with the biggest gathering spot being Pier Plaza. There’s always a place to squeeze in right at the curb.
As the event unfolds, the party people start to line up at the bars along Pier Plaza. The most popular of these is Hennessey’s – big surprise there – which pulls out its tables, puts in temporary jockey boxes, and charges $10 for a large beer.
Other hot bars on the Pier are Sharkeez and Tower 12, Patrick Molloy’s, Waterman’s, Hennesse’s Tavern, the new Vista with its outdoor ping-pong and Barnacles on Hermosa Ave.
To avoid the inevitable lines, the savvy South Bay party people constantly monitor the situation from the Pier during the parade and dash into their chosen bar before it gets too crowded.
Hermosa Beach Parade Event Dates & Details
Date & Location: Saturday, March 11. Hermosa Beach Pier area.
Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (appx).
Parade Route: The parades runs down Pier Ave., from Valley/Ardmore, turns south at the Pier, and finishes at 8th Street.
My wife and I may be interested in riding our bikes in the St. Patrick’s day parade. Can you send me more information. How long is the route.? Is this a fee for riding, what is the cutoff date to register?
The route is only about 12 blocks; down Pier Ave., from Valley-Ardmore then right on Hermosa Ave. It ends in front of Barnacles. Not sure of the cutoff date; check with Hermosa Cyclery since they organize the bike ride. — PubClub.com
Where can out-of-towners park?
This week the Budweiser horses have been staying at our stable in South Gate, and we’ve gotten to know the crew. Our family would like to come, but don’t know the area at all.
Jim Meyer
How cool Jim. You’re GOT to some down and see them in Hermosa. Just know that parking will be difficult. PubClub recommends parking in neighboring Redondo Beach – plenty of all-day spots for free – and taking an Uber/Lift to Hermosa (about 2-3 miles). Erin Go Bragh!
Just checking to see if the Parade is still a go with all the hoopla going on with the COVID19
PubClub has not received or seen anything about it being canceled, so it is on, at least as of this writing. Thanks and enjoy it!
Southbay Music Connection is providing music for the after party on Pier Ave in front of the Bank of America building from 1-4pm.
Awesome. Thanks for the information!