Rain fails to dampen Corktown St. Paddy's parade

CORKTOWN, Mich. (WJBK) - The luck of the Irish may have been lacking a little at this year's St. Patrick Day parade in Corktown as rain drenched those who came out, but certainly didn't dampen the festivities.

"We have a huge role and responsibility to bring young Irish people out and to support our heritage and show who we are," said Ashling Magolan, Queen of the Court of St. Brigid.

This year marked the 58th annual event along Michigan Avenue. The tradition has attracted as many as 75,000 people in past years, all dressed to impress in their greatest green garb.

"The Queen of the United Irish Societies is a really great organization," said Hannah Newell, Queen of the Detroit United Irish Societies. "They support all the Irish events in Detroit and they try to get everyone involved, and we really like to see all the young faces around here."

While most people were there to take in the sights and celebrate the rich Irish heritage in Detroit's oldest neighborhood, others began the day by pounding the soggy pavement for the Corktown races that have also become a big draw.

"I love the start/finish," said Nancy Smith, who participated in the Corktown race. "It's right in front of the train station. It's the perfect back drop."

The conditions may have been less than perfect for Sunday's parade, but the people who braved the wet weather made it just as memorable. Whether they were participating or on the sidelines cheering them on, it was worth every saturated second.

"It's wonderful to see so many people reaching into their Irish roots," said Kitty Heinzman, parade grand marshall.