For Eileen Mulcahy, the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is more than a celebration of Irish culture. It is a reflection of faith, family, and a tradition that has shaped generations of Catholics in the archdiocese. 

This year, Mulcahy will serve as an aide to the Grand Marshal, an honor she says she received with deep gratitude after being asked by Cardinal Timothy Dolan. 

Mulcahy noted that the recognition carries special meaning. “I am probably one of the first or very few women to have represented the archdiocese as an aide to the grand marshal,” she said. 

Her connection to the parade stretches back to childhood. Growing up, Mulcahy said her parents brought their family to watch the procession each year along Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue. 

“When I was growing up, my parents would take us, all seven of us, to the parade. It was just a great day,” she said. “It embodies family and coming together and being excited about your heritage.” 

The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, first held in 1762 by Irish soldiers serving with the British Army stationed in New York, is widely recognized as the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world. Today it is organized by the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, whose leadership includes members of Irish American organizations such as the Ancient Order of Hibernians. 

The parade begins at 44th Street and Fifth Avenue at 11 a.m. and proceeds north to 79th Street, drawing thousands of spectators who gather along the route to celebrate. 

Mulcahy said the traditions surrounding the day still resonate strongly with Catholics today. 

“The hallmark of Irish heritage is faith, family, laughter, music, being together,” she said. “We start the day with Mass, and then families come out together.” 

For Mulcahy, her Catholic faith has always been central to her life and her work within the archdiocese. 

“I’ve been a part of the archdiocese for over 20 years,” she said. “I have put my faith in action every day that I come to work. It’s not just a job for me. It’s part of who I am.” 

As she prepares to take part in one of New York’s most beloved traditions, Mulcahy says the recognition remains humbling. 

“This recognition is very humbling for me,” she said. “I’m incredibly honored.”