Support St. Pat's Parade March 13 at Hawkeye Downs

As warmer weather arrives this week in Eastern Iowa, this year's St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cedar Rapids will take on a new look, as the Sapadapaso organization tackles the challenges still facing participants in 2021.

Last year the holiday parade was canceled as Covid-19 spread its way across the globe and while the event organizers took a lot of criticism for their decision, in hindsight it was the correct call.

This year Sapadapaso will host a "Drive Through" St. Pat's parade on Saturday March 13th from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Hawkeye Downs.

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Decorated parade floats will be parked on the inside track and spectators in cars will be allowed to drive around the race track. The first 200 spectator vehicles will get a free swag bag filled with candy, coupons, and Irish trinkets.

Organizers are still taking float applications and it's no surprise that the number of current parade entries is lower than in previous years. But with temperatures climbing into the 40s in Cedar Rapids this week, it's hopeful that the number of float entries will also rise.

2021 will mark the 46th Annual Sapadapaso St. Patrick's Day Parade in Cedar Rapids and it's commendable how the officers and volunteers are working to create a fun, memorable event.

Sapadapaso President-elect Tammy Maneely said a silent auction is expected to begin next week that will help raise money for this year's event with about 30 donated items up for bid.

The Sapadapaso Donation Page is a another easy way to provide financial support.

So let the warmer weather wash over you and join the fun this week. And now, let's enjoy a look back at the 2019 and 2018 St. Patrick's Day Parade: