March 18,  2009



The first annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Avon got underway at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, on Ocean Lane on a windy but sunny evening.

In fact, this may have been the first St. Patrick’s Day parade ever on Hatteras Island.

The parade included full-time Kinnakeeters and homeowners who spend several months in the village during the winter.  Joining the human celebrants were two Irish setters, a golden retriever, and cairn terrier.

Music was provided by the kazoo-playing participants.

The parade was followed by a lively get-together with Irish food and Irish coffee at the home of Frank and Pat Clark.

The Clarks have a St. Patrick’s Day get-together at their home each year, and this year they and others decided to expand the celebrating to costumes and a parade.

" 'Twas a celebration our forefathers would have been so proud of from the wearin' o' the green to the Irish stew, corned beef, and Guinness layer cake," said Meg Hughes, one of the parade participants.

Hughes added that the organizers hope the parade will be an annual event in Avon.

“Next year, we would like to take it to Highway 12,” she said.

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