Sean and Judith Clerkin began the Minneapolis St. Patrick's Day Association

with the help of the Minneapolis community. Shown above is a photo of Sean with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey being presented with a signed book from Ireland.

 

The history of MSPDA began with creating a simple tradition:

A PARADE.

Minneapolis's first St. Patrick's Day Parade dates back to 1969, when Duff’s Bar and the
Bradford’s Pub joined together to organize it. It was a short caravan between the two pubs,

prompted by friendly jibing of some gentlemen of other ethnic backgrounds.

 

The first parade consisted of one float, provided by
the Sons and Daughters of Ireland. It was a social event, including wild
members of the Minnesota Vikings Football team riding motorcycles into
Duff’s bar to commemorate the parade.

 

Since then, the parade has grown to become one of the most celebrated
parades in Minneapolis. It takes the support and dedication of the
community to make this event a dream come true each and every year.