After a two-month closure, customers couldn't wait to once again support Siamsa Irish Pub in downtown Stroudsburg. The restaurant temporarily shut down following a pipe burst in the sprinkler system on Christmas Eve, which caused severe water damage.

“Watching the water flow was heartbreaking. To see things you put so much effort into get damaged, it really hurts,” said Doug Gawthrop, general manager.

Pain turned to pride for Siamsa's grand re-opening celebration. “You almost forget what it's like until it all comes back again. It just puts a smile on your face and makes you happy that people are enjoying themselves here,” Gawthrop smiled.

While repairs were underway, management used that time as an opportunity to refresh the space and revamp the menu, which includes all the Irish fare favorites. Throughout the process, they had one goal in mind: to re-open before the 44th annual St. Patrick’s Parade, taking over Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg on Sunday, March 19, 2023.

“That's our Super Bowl, and this year it being on the same weekend as Saint Patrick’s Day, we were absolutely going to be open for that,” Gawthrop said.

Nearly 20,000 people come from near and far to witness what has become one of Pennsylvania’s premiere parades. Put on by Pocono Irish American Club, this year's event includes more than 60 participants and 14 bands. The parade is funded by generous sponsorships from local businesses and organizations. New for 2023, individuals and families are invited to become Angel Sponsors.

“It's $99 dollars and you could do it in somebody's name, or in honor of somebody,” said Brian Gallagher, president of Pocono Irish American Club.

For the first time in decades, Pocono Irish American Club will have its very own float in the parade. And keep an eye out for this year's grand marshal, Ed O’Donnell, a 98-year-old World War Two Marine veteran. “We're so happy to honor him. He's an American hero,” Gallagher said.

Irish or not, these festivities are for all, and bring a huge boost to small businesses in Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg. “You hear so much negativity in the world today. It’s nice to see people come out and smile, and that’s what it's all about,” Gallagher added.

The Pocono Television Network will once again partner with Blue Ridge Cable News13 for live coverage of the parade, stepping off at 1:15pm on Sunday, March 19, 2023. Not able to attend in-person? Tune in for a look at all the can't-miss action on and around the parade route.