West Suburban Irish's annual parade steps off in Naperville

The West Suburban Irish held their 24th annual St. Patrick's Day parade Saturday in Naperville. Starting from Naperville North High School, the parade, which featured roughly 100 floats and marching units, headed south on Mill Street winding its way through town to Water Street.

"It's a little bit chilly, but it's sunny out, people are in great spirits, and we do have a better crowd than I thought, with the cold weather. I think everybody's in a great mood and looking forward to the day," said Chuck Corrigan, co-chair of the Naperville St. Patrick's Day parade.

Ettie Randels, who was born and raised in Ireland, marched in the parade after she helped assist a 5K race in Naperville earlier in the morning.

"We are with Naperville Sunrise Rotary, and we get things done in town, including the 5K, which we organized this morning. It is our biggest fundraiser of the year," Randels said.

Former Naperville resident Bob Welsh, of Crest Hill, marched in the parade dressed as St. Patrick. "This is my 23rd straight year of doing this, and my last. I have enjoyed it very, very much. It's really been terrific with all these wonderful people," Welsh said.

Melissa Znenovec and her son Mason marched in the parade for the first time with John Greene Realtors.

"St. Patrick's Day is my son's absolute favorite holiday. He likes to try to catch a leprechaun on St. Patrick's Day eve," Znenovec said.