The 2020 SaPaDaPaSo (Saint Patrick Day Parade Society) Parade was the first major event in Cedar Rapids that was canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic. Within days of its cancellation, our lives were drastically changed. Ten months later, the continuing battle against the virus has forced the parade's organizers to decide on a very unique approach for this year's celebration of St. Patrick's Day.

SaPaDaPaSo, a 501(c)3 non-profit, announced on their Facebook page today that they'll be hosting a "first and last, one of a kind, race track parade." The parade will be a drive-thru, allowing vehicles to drive by floats that will be lined up at Hawkeye Downs. The parade will be on Saturday, March 13, instead of on St. Patrick's Day itself when the parade has always been held. Our news partner, Iowa's News Now CBS 2, says SaPaDaPaSo expects over 50 entries for the drive-thru event. Those attending will receive goodie bags when they drive through.

Sapadapaso, Facebook
Sapadapaso, Facebook
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Kudos to the parade's organizers for finding a way to have the annual event this year, while still keeping everyone safe. As more details are released in the next couple of months, we'll be sure to let you know. Hard as it is to believe, St. Patrick's Day is two months from today.

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In 2022, let's hope the parade can return to downtown Cedar Rapids, where thousands upon thousands line the streets on St. Patrick's Day for what is, without a doubt, one of the city's finest events each and every year.

2019 St Patrick's Day SaPaDaPaSo Parade

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