The day starts at 9:30 for mass at the Alba House. From there, the Staten Island Pipes and Drums and the Ancient Order of Hibernians board buses headed for 46th street in the city to await their step off time.
The weather was in the mid 60's the entire day. Just perfect for a march down 5th Avenue.
They began marching at 3:30 or so and ended at 79th and 5th avenue.
From there, the band breaks up into smaller parts. Some take the bus home, others hit parties and bars that are awaiting their songs.
I traveled the day with the SI Pipes and Drums. I waited with them on 46th for a few hours and then ran up Madison to meet them at the end of the parade. I saw a few family members and other Staten Islander marching while I waited at the end.
After the parade, we headed downtown this year and invaded Stone Street and the surrounding area for a while. Then headed to the Staten Island Ferry and rode the boat home with some members of the other band, the Richmond County Pipes and Drums.
It was a long day that got longer once we hit the island. Although we live in St. George/New Brighton area, we took a long train ride across the entire island to take someone home, and then back to the North Shore again. On the way back, we popped into a few Staten Island bars to say hello and play a few sets, then home by 1 am. I was on my feet almost the entire day.
All in all, it was a great day and here's to hoping next year is too!
Positively Staten Island -A Look Inside Staten Island
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