Young Montrealers share their big dreams for St.Patrick’s Day Parade
Posted March 22, 2026 3:52 pm.
Last Updated March 22, 2026 4:57 pm.
Snow won’t stop Montreal from celebrating one of its oldest traditions, as thousands gathered Sunday for the 201st edition of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
“Whenever we’re here for the parade or just St. Patrick’s Day, we’re always making fun,” said Kayla Ann Richer, a Montrealer.
This year’s theme, Little Shamrock’s, Big Dreams, puts the spotlight on the next generation carrying on the tradition.
“A lot of this parade has kind of passed down through the generations. And it’s because we keep getting our youth and our kids involved. Like, my kids come to our general meetings, and they’re so small. And the tradition just kind of lives on, and kids can believe in anything, and their dreams are big,” said Nikki Picher-Doyle, Vice-president of advertising and public relations for United Irish Societies of Montreal.
Malea Richer, a younger Montrealer, said, “My big dream… is when me and all my family get together.”
Daryl, another young Montrealer, said his dream is to “Play in the NHL.”
For Alannah Bougie and her husband, this year’s parade director Devin St. James, the celebration is a family tradition now being passed on to their son, Hunter.
“It’s our second year, participating in the parade as our little kids are now involved,” said Bougie.
Her son Hunter said he’d like to do “the same job as his dad” in the future. As for what that is? “He’s the parade director, and he goes and tells everybody what to do.”
For three hours, more than 90 performers filled de Maisonneuve Boulevard — with floats, marching bands, sports teams, local organizations and traditional dancers.
“It’s so inclusive. It’s one of the biggest events that people turn out to and it just brings joy,” said Picher-Doyle.
Cindy Collin, a Montrealer, said, “Everyone’s just happy, and they all come together despite their history and stuff like that.”
