Irish on Ionia began in 2011.
GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - St. Patrick's Day is Sunday, but the celebration started early in Grand Rapids.
People lined Monroe Center Saturday morning for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, organized by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. This year's procession included a pedal-powered bar hopper. There were also floats, cheerleaders, greyhounds and costumed characters.
While the parade was unfolding, people flooding Ionia Avenue for the largest holiday street party in the state. More than 14,000 people were expected to attend this year's Irish on Ionia celebration.
One man made the trip downtown at 5 a.m. Saturday to take in the live music, performances and competitions.
This is the third year for Irish on Ionia. Last year, participating bars served up 280 kegs of green beer to a record-setting crowd.