A great day for a parade!

Yesterday was the annual St. Patrick's day parade in Montreal, and it was the warmest day we've had in years for this parade.  I hadn't gone to this parade in about 20 years and I think I picked the perfect year to attend.

I had forgotten how much fun this day can be, there is a great party atmosphere and all around  camaraderie.  Many people make this an annual gathering, giving each other a general meeting spot followed by good times and cheer.  This is one of the few times in Montreal where you can have a beer on the streets without repercussion and watch as the various floats and paraders go by.  Yesterday was a particularly spectacular day, the sun was shining and the temperatures rose to +22 degrees!  Now that is a perfect day for a parade.  The party continued well after the parade was over as you walked East on St-Catherine street and headed towards the many Downtown bars and pubs.  The terraces were so packed that people were just spilling out onto the streets, dancing, drinking beer and just enjoying one of the most beautiful days we've had here in months.

I've compiled a few photos of my St. Patrick's parade experience after a 20 year absence, and I can honestly say that after yesterday, I will definitely be going a lot more often from now on.  You can view this slide show here:

http://www.flickr.com//photos/anniecurran/sets/72157629619510079/show/

Cheers!  Or as we would say in Gaelic Sláinte!