Green jubilee

Auburn's 50th Saint Patrick's Day Parade kicked off at 5:17 p.m. on the dot March 17 on Lincoln Way. Onlookers gathered along the route to cheer and wave to the drivers and their passengers. It was an event for people of all ages. It was a balmy start to the evening. People brought their children, family and pets. They scrambled along Lincoln Way looking for shade from the sun that was just beginning to droop in the sky. The moments before the start saw the crowd trickle until the streets were lined. People dressed in green, wearing the kind of flamboyant Saint Patrick's Day accessories expected for such a celebration. Leprechaun hats and shamrock necklaces adorned onlookers and parade participants. Cars lined up on Lincoln Way with anticipation from the crowd. The cars were decked out in Saint Patrick's Day flair as shiny emerald plastic decor decorated the majority of vehicles. They were joined by fire engines, police cars and at least one EMT vehicle. They used their sirens to the delight of children among the onlookers. The variety of cars on display spanned from old beaters, restored classics and modern sports cars. Participants brought their families to drive the route, waving at crowds with genuine smiles. There was at least one person who dressed up and "princess waved" down the route from the front seat of a sleek car. Some cars handed out St. Patrick's Day paraphernalia, and one car tossed emerald beads into the crowd. The modern sports cars and classic hot rods and chopper motorcycles showed off their engines with crowd-pleasing revs, roaring their engines to life. It's easy to see why this event is so enduring. It's inclusive, easy and fun for all ages. Whether you're in the parade, driving down the lanes to the adoration of the crowd or you're bringing young kids to enjoy the fire engines and suped-up sports cars, it's a good place to drink with your friends and when you're done, you're downtown with its myriad of restaurants and bars. The event benefits local business and entertains the locals. It's a great way to enjoy the community.