SHORTEST ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE GETS READY FOR ITS 12TH RUN

By Cathy Zavorskas, Matawan Borough Community Engagement Coordinator

hold the parade in Matawan after observing a similar event in Jersey City. Raymond organized the inaugural parade in 2010 and has continued to do so ever since.

The Washington Engine Co. #1’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade is an annual event that has gained popularity since its inception more than a decade ago. The parade can be credited to Raymond Bassford, a retired Jersey City firefighter and member of Washington Engine Co. He had the idea to

The parade, which takes place in downtown Matawan along Jackson Street between Spring and Church Streets, is only one block long, earning it the moniker “shortest parade”. Despite its length, the parade includes many of the traditional elements of a St. Patrick’s Day parade, such as a Grand Marshal (Washington Engine chose Doug Weber Sr. and sons Doug and Eric this year), a Colleen

(Kate Chieffo has the honor), and marchers such as civic organizations, boy/girl scouts, and sports teams along with the mayor and council members. The Friendly Sons of Shillelagh pipe band plays as antique cars, Matawan firetrucks, first aid/ EMS vehicles, and other vehicles from neighboring towns drive by. The police department arranges for street closures, traffic, and safety for the occasion, and the mayor and council approve the painting of a green line down the middle of the street to define the parade route.

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