Making March the Most Magical Month With the Best Parades
With March comes many holidays and festivities. From St. Patrick’s Day to Mardi Gras to Easter, spring can be a time of celebration and delight. To make this season especially special, why not get outside and experience one of the many popular parades? Parade Magazine provides entertaining and colorful ways to enjoy the season. Whether you plan ahead or decide to attend last minute, a parade promises to bring delight to the entire family.
What is Parade Magazine?
Parade Magazine is an American publication printed on Sundays. It includes articles from various sources and is available nationwide in many major newspapers. Its easy-to-access format has helped to make Parade Magazine one of the most popular magazines in North America. The publication features human interest stories, statistical factoids and puzzles in addition to celebrity interviews and other topics of interest. Parade Magazine’s unique cover art every Sunday often reflects the current season of celebration.
The Benefits of Attending a Parade
There are many reasons to attend a parade. Low price admission makes it an affordable event for families. In contrast with events like holiday concerts and expos, parades provide an outdoor, experience, exposing participants to the sights, sounds and smells of the season. Furthermore, parades provide opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, while learning more about an area’s culture and history.
Tips For Attending Parades
For those interested in attending a parade, there are a number of tips to ensure a successful outing. First, it’s important to know the specifics. Research ahead of time to determine parade route, date and time. To get the best view, arrive early in order to secure a good spot. Bring along plenty of drinks and snacks, if the parade lasts long, and bring along a camera to document the event. Finally, dress for the weather and don’t forget items like sunscreen and rain gear.
The Benefits of Planning Ahead
Although spur of the moment decisions may sound enticing, planning ahead is the best way to get the most out of parade season. Deciding ahead of time which parade to attend is a key part of the process. Many regions hold popular parades throughout March and other months, so take a look at options like the Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, Dyngus Day and other accolade events. Alternatively, some may decide to go with a more regionally-specific event.
Planning ahead also allows you to plan your outfit ahead of time. Whether you choose to throw beads, don costumes, display your Irish pride or just show your enthusiasm for the season, deciding ahead of time means that you can look your best when it counts.
5 Of The Best Parades Across America
- Mardi Gras – New Orleans, Louisiana
What began as a French Catholic tradition in medieval Europe is now an all-out celebration in the deep south. Originally celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, Mardi Gras has been held in New Orleans ever since the 1800s. The celebration includes colorful floats, elaborate costumes and festive music.
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – New York City, New York
This legendary event began in 1924 and is held annually on Thanksgiving day. It typically features giant balloons, Broadway performers and top-notch marching bands. Plus, a star-studded line-up of celebrities is often on hand.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Boston, Massachusetts
This parade has been held since the 1700s and is the oldest continuously operating event of its kind in the United States. The march includes pipe and drum corps, floats, and dignitaries from around the world.
- Fiesta San Antonio – San Antonio, Texas
This ten day celebration features over 100 events, including a Battle of the Flowers Parade. This is the only parade in the world that utilizes flower-covered floats.
- The Tournament of Roses Parade – Pasadena, California
This event has been held in the Pasadena area since 1890. It includes elaborate floral floats from around the world and is traditionally held on the day before the Rose Bowl college football game.
Planning Ahead For The Best View
Advance planning can have many benefits when it comes to parade-viewing. If a route is known ahead of time, look at a map and determine the best sections to view the event. Prior planning also helps to know what to bring. It’s good to come equipped to watch the parade comfortably, such as beverages, snacks, and even chairs.
Finally, the most important advice when attending a parade is to enjoy yourself. Parades are an opportunity to join in celebration with others and appreciate the culture, no matter what form it takes. Because it’s much easier to be in a festive spirit when one is comfortable, attend the event with a positive attitude and make the most of the opportunity to be outside and enjoy some sunshine.
Celebrating the season with a parade is a great way to welcome in spring. Whether you choose a popular event or something more regionally specific, planning ahead can help your outing go more smoothly. Making the most of the parade experience means arriving early and coming prepared for the weather. As a final note, make sure to relax and enjoy the event for what it’s about: community, joy, and celebration.
