advertisement

Snow can’t stop the Shamrock spirit in Aurora

Not even a swirl of blistery snow could freeze the Irish spirit in Aurora on Sunday, March 16.

As nature painted the town white, the community turned it emerald green with joy, laughter, and a grand celebration.

The annual Daniel D. Dolan St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Flag Raising Ceremony brought downtown Aurora to life, honoring both the vibrant holiday and the memory of a beloved local icon.

The sons of the late Dan Dolan — the namesake of the parade — speak to the crowd with a cardboard cutout of their father. From left, Dan Dolan, Ryan Dolan and Brian Dolan. Courtesy of city of Aurora

Named after the late Dan Dolan — a dedicated Realtor and philanthropist — the event was a true testament to Irish pride and community spirit!

With 30 spirited parade units, including local Irish businesses, energetic youth groups, and dedicated public safety officials, the streets were filled with cheers and shamrocks galore!

The annual Daniel D. Dolan St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Flag Raising Ceremony brought downtown Aurora to life on Sunday, March 16, 2025, honoring both the vibrant holiday and the memory of a beloved local icon. Courtesy of city of Aurora

As the parade wrapped up, the Irish Flag Raising Ceremony took center stage, dazzling the crowd with a live performance of the Irish national anthem, a salute by the Aurora Police Department Pipe and Drums, a cultural dance by the McNulty Irish Dancers, and the presentation of the annual Emerald Excellence Awards.

Two of the grandsons of the late Dan Dolan raise the Irish flag in memory of their patriarch. Courtesy of city of Aurora

The most heartfelt moment of all? The grandchildren of Dan Dolan proudly raising the Irish flag, honoring both their cherished ‘Papa D’ and the unbreakable Irish spirit that continues to thrive in Aurora!

In spite of the snow, crowds brought great energy and Irish spirit to Aurora’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16. Courtesy of city of Aurora
A volunteer hands out treats to parade-goers at the annual Daniel D. Dolan St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Flag Raising Ceremony on March 16 in downtown Aurora. Courtesy of city of Aurora
The annual Daniel D. Dolan St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Flag Raising Ceremony brought downtown Aurora to life on Sunday, March 16, 2025, honoring both the vibrant holiday and the memory of a beloved local icon. Courtesy of city of Aurora
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.