The Allentown St. Patrick’s Parade Committee has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s physical parade and its related activities due to the ongoing restrictions on gatherings caused by COVID-19.

However, virtual plans are already set to keep the spirit of St. Patrick alive in 2021.

A special virtual St. Patrick’s Parade event will be broadcast noon March 21 on Service Electric Cable TV, as well as on Facebook and YouTube Live.

This special broadcast will include live segments featuring pipe bands and Irish step dancers performing remotely, highlights from the 2017, 2018 and 2019 parades, as well as a special introduction from Allentown Mayor Ray O’Connell.

During the week of March 15, a house-decorating contest will be held via the Allentown St. Patrick’s Parade Facebook Page with online voting.

Gift certificates from some parade sponsors will be awarded to the winners.

On March 17, there will be a virtual toast to St. Patrick conducted from the safety of participants’ own homes.

In the spirit of St. Patrick and in keeping with the tradition of remembering The Great Hunger, the Allentown St. Patrick’s Parade Committee is encouraging online donations to the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Information will be shared on their website and Facebook page as well.

The West End Alliance, which organizes the West End St. Patrick’s 5K preceding the parade, is evaluating alternate dates and locations for its annual race, the proceeds from which benefit beautification and neighborhood development in the West End Theatre District. Updates will be posted in the coming weeks at westendstpats5k.com.

Information and ongoing updates can be found on Facebook at Allentown St. Patrick’s Parade and at allentownstpatricksparade.com.