2026 Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade makes official return following cancellation

NAPLES, Fla. —

The Naples St. Patrick Foundation made an official announcement Friday that they will march on, marking 50 years of the parade.

"It's nice to see people want to donate to something like this and make something happen for the public," said Randy Patrick.

"It's always a lot of fun doing community activities like that," added Catherine Patrick.

Earlier this week, the parade's future was put in jeopardy with a dramatic increase in the cost of security. However, neighbors stepped up to donate and make sure the parade could go on. Former Naples councilman, Gary Price, helped lead the effort.

"We actually raised $46,000," Price said. "We were able to reach out to people, and people are so generous and we're just glad it all came together so quickly."

Going forward, the foundation says it's optimistic about building a positive relationship with the city and police for parades to come. The city also says they are having discussions with city council on ways to provide barricades and alleviate security fees on event organizers.

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