Not every St. Patrick’s Day parade planner waits to confirm step-off time by checking the tide chart, but Karen Recene does. As longtime manager of The Pub in Matunuck – which is said to be one of the oldest Irish bars in the country – she needs to ensure walkable dry sand for the World’s Shortest Beach Parade held each St. Patrick’s Day.
The brief route is always the same: marchers ceremoniously descend from the back steps of the Ocean Mist, head down Matunuck Beach, and conclude at The Pub. Throngs of onlookers dressed in green hats, shamrock headbands, and even wigs fill the area to cheer on the procession. The festivities begin with the unmistakable sounds of Great Highland pipes played by a bagpiper, who follows the lead of the grand marshall, who dons a top hat, gold sash, and shillelagh; next in line are costumed revelers, kids, and dogs. This year’s parade is planned for 4:30pm and expected to clock-in at less than five minutes, but most likely will be done in three.
“The intention behind the parade is to connect neighboring businesses, and all come together in one place to celebrate the holiday,” says Recene. “Each year guests and patrons join in and dress up as if they were their own St. Patrick’s Day parade float. It’s very fun!”
Warm up after at either restaurant with menus that include house specialties like Irish Nachos at The Pub, a crunchy delight of thinly sliced house-cooked potato chips, baked with cheddar cheese, jalapeño bacon, and scallions, served with sour cream; or a steaming bowl of clam chowder at Ocean Mist, for starters. Related happenings include a traditional Irish corned beef and cabbage dinner at The Pub on Friday, March 14, “so customers can start the weekend in a festive spirit,” adds Recene. The Ocean Mist will be hosting a 21+ St. Patrick’s Day Lucky Bingo, which is free to play. 907 Matunuck Beach Road, South Kingstown, 284-1901, ThePubMTK.com
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