Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade

On the sunny Sunday afternoon of March 18, the Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade rolled through Metairie. Sure the pictures make this parade look like Mardi Gras. There are a few differences. The parade is part of the local St. Patrick's Day and St. Joseph's Day celebrations. This year the parade took place between the two holidays.

Marches with flowers replace the marching bands in the parade. The marchers, men and women, give out flowers in exchange for a hug and/or kiss. They march with a stick adorned with the flowers.

Another tradition – that is also associated with the local St. Patrick’s Day parade - involves throwing cabbages, carrots and potatoes. Parade-goers need to watch for these items. They could be easily be beaned on the head.