Essex Parks and Recreation

Announcements & News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Essex Park and Recreation Celebrates Irish Heritage and Community Spirit at the 2026 Essex Go Bragh Irish Parade

Essex, CT — Essex Park and Recreation is officially thinking GREEN, and that can only mean one thing: the beloved Essex Go Bragh Irish Parade is returning on Saturday, March 21, 2026, with a festive step-off at 11:00 AM from Essex Town Hall, marching through the heart of Essex Village.

A cherished, family-friendly tradition, the Essex Go Bragh Irish Parade brings the community together each spring to celebrate Irish heritage, local pride, and the joyful spirit that defines Essex. Residents and visitors alike are invited to enjoy a morning filled with music, color, and smiles—and to wear their green proudly.

“We’re thrilled by the excitement we’re already hearing from longtime participants and new groups alike,” said Essex Park and Recreation. “This parade is one of our favorite days of the year, and we truly hope the entire community will join us.”

2026 Grand Marshal Announcement

Essex Park and Recreation is proud to announce that the Essex America 250 Semi-Quincentennial Committee has been selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Essex Go Bragh Parade.

This honor recognizes the committee’s outstanding work in planning and coordinating local initiatives in celebration of America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the United States in 2026. Their efforts highlight Essex’s rich history while creating inclusive, educational, and community-focused opportunities for residents of all ages.

Members of the Essex America 250 Semi-Quincentennial Committee include:

Stacia Libby
Melissa Josefiak
Jacqui Hubbard
Alison Brinkmann
Maria Lucarelli
Courtney Parkerson
Carolyn Crehan
Elijah Arsenault
Alyson Finnegan

Parade Details

The Grand Marshals will lead the parade on Saturday, March 21, stepping off at 11:00 AM from Essex Town Hall. The route will travel through Essex Village to Ferry Street, turn onto Pratt Street, and disburse at Cross Street.

This signature spring event will once again feature a lively mix of Irish dancers, pipers and drum corps, local nonprofits, businesses, students, scouting organizations, sports teams, and community groups.

Community members are encouraged to gather a group and march—the more marchers, the merrier! Wear green, bring banners, wave flags, play music, and show off your Essex pride.

Participation & Contact Information

Groups interested in participating in the parade are encouraged to reach out as soon as possible.

Contact:
Mary Ellen Barnes
📧 mbarnes@essexct.gov
📞 860-767-4340 x110

Please feel free to share this invitation with community groups, sports teams, businesses, and organizations who may want to join the fun.

Essex Park and Recreation looks forward to celebrating Irish heritage, American history, and the incredible Essex community together.

Let’s make 2026 our biggest and best parade yet!

Sláinte,

It’s hard to believe how fast this summer flew by, but we’re so thankful for every moment shared at Essex Park and Recreation Summer Camp.

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this camp season such a huge success!

To our campers – your energy, laughter, and curiosity lit up every day.

To our incredible staff and volunteers – your dedication, creativity, and hard work made everything possible.

To the families who trusted us – thank you for allowing us to be a part of your child’s summer journey.

And to our community partners and supporters – we couldn’t have done it without you.

This season was filled with new friendships, exciting adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime. We’re already counting down the days until next summer!

With gratitude

Mary Ellen Barnes and Tim LaChance