St. Patrick's Day revelers enjoy annual Town of Erin parade

TOWN OF ERIN (WITI) -- The streets were shut down early Sunday morning, March 17th in the Town of Erin, for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade.

The Town of Erin may be small, but it's known for its huge annual St. Patrick's Day parade.

"The crowd is enormous compared to what it was," Dievall said.

Since it began in 1980, this parade has drawn revelers from all over. Folks ike Jessie Dievall have been coming ever since.

"I've been to pretty much all of them. I don't think I missed many. We used to come when we were kids," Dievall said.

A sea of every shade of green could be seen Sunday as floats trailed down County Highway K.

"It's a great experience. It's just a fun family event," Dievall said.

The parade route was adorned with leprechauns and Irish flags as folks with beads and festive flair Shamrock-shimmied their way to a good time.

It's bright. It's sunny. It's going to be spring soon. Everybody gets to hang out and have a good time and celebrate St. Patrick's Day," Eric Roche said.

For most, it was about the time-honored customs that are most meaningful.

"The four of us spent some time in Ireland, so we always celebrate St. Patty's Day together," Stevie Osowski said.

"Just the tradition of it all. All of our family comes out. The neighbors -- seeing everyone you know from the area," Dievall said.

"We get up early, have green eggs and ham and lots of green beer. I made Jameson jello shots today and we hit the bars," Roche said.

Of course it wouldn't be St. Patrick's Day without raising a glass or two. To help brave the frigid temperatures, folks did just that.

"It's fun. I think a few cocktails will get you warm. People are generally nice and friendly. Have a good time. Just a way to celebrate," Osowski said.

Parade-goers say the cultural and religious holiday is mainly about camaraderie and spiritual regeneration.

This year's parade was the 33rd annual.