Brainerd and Baxter Honor St. Patrick’s Day with Vibrant Parade

On Saturday, March 14, the towns of Brainerd and Baxter came together to celebrate the 26th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, drawing a lively crowd to the heart of Downtown Brainerd. Despite overcast skies and temperatures hovering in the upper 20s, attendees bundled up to enjoy the festivities, with a forecast of snow adding to the wintry atmosphere.

Community Spirit Shines Through

Residents and visitors lined the streets, many taking the opportunity to shop at local businesses. The Main Street Market on Laurel Street buzzed with activity, while the Caribbean Fusion food truck attracted a queue of eager customers. Attendees also found refuge from the cold inside the warm embrace of Knotty Pine Bakery, where they watched the parade unfold through large windows.

Children, decked out in festive green attire, eagerly anticipated the arrival of candy from the parade units as the procession wound its way through the downtown area. The parade featured an array of vibrant floats, vehicles, dignitaries, fire trucks, and police cars, all contributing to the celebratory atmosphere. Notably, some attendees embraced the spirit of the day by donning creative costumes, while inflatable dinosaurs delighted the younger spectators.

Parade Highlights and Notable Guests

Among the leading figures was Kevin Yeager, a member of the Brainerd City Council, who served as the parade’s grand marshal. Dressed in a traditional kilt, top hat, and carrying a walking stick, Yeager walked the route with enthusiasm. He was not alone in his choice of attire; at least one other paradegoer also sported a kilt, showcasing the joyful spirit of the event.

Baxter Mayor Darrel Olson participated actively, waving to the crowd from the back of a pickup truck. He donned a large green and white scarf, a green hat, and coordinating gloves, embodying the festive theme. The parade not only highlighted local pride but also fostered a sense of community, bringing together people from both Brainerd and Baxter for a shared celebration.

The St. Patrick’s Day parade has become a cherished tradition in the region, attracting families and friends each year, regardless of the weather. This year’s event continued the legacy, reinforcing community bonds and providing a platform for local businesses to shine.