Hilton Head businesses gear up for 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade return

by Aaron Dixon

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (WTOC) - Hilton Head Island is gearing up for a big weekend as the 40th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns Sunday after last year’s event was canceled due to severe weather.

The celebration will bring thousands of people to the island, with organizers and local businesses along Pope Avenue preparing for one of the busiest days of the year.

Businesses prepare for big crowds

At Coligny Plaza, crews have been getting the area ready for a full day of entertainment, including a live music lineup designed to give visitors plenty to do before and after the parade.

“We want everyone who is coming to visit to have an activity beforehand and after. Whether that’s a meal, some drinks, or enjoying the music,” said Lee Lucier with The Richardson Group.

Restaurants and bars say they have been running through their weekend checklists — including stocking up on supplies and increasing service capacity — as both visitors and locals return for the island tradition.

‘You can never be over-prepared.’

One of the newest restaurants set to feel the parade-day rush is The Bank, which opened three years ago and has only experienced one St. Patrick’s Day Parade weekend in operation.

General Manager Bill Alberts said the first parade was a major success — and it taught them a key lesson.

“You can never be over-prepared,” Alberts said.

To get ahead of the crowds, Alberts said the restaurant will expand drink service with additional outlets throughout the property, including satellite beer stations and a beer garden setup.

“For us, we’re looking for hopefully a record-setting day,” Alberts said.

Alberts added that the parade weekend is also a chance to welcome back island residents.

“This area on Hilton Head is kinda known as the tourist end of the island, so it’ll be nice to get those locals back here on property so they can experience everything we have changed,” he said.

Music and events planned at Coligny Plaza

Coligny Plaza leaders say the weekend will feature 12 bands performing throughout the day, with the plaza’s 11 restaurants also preparing for heavy foot traffic.

“There’s always good food and drinks, and it’s a great family atmosphere. Come out, enjoy it, and have a good time. Erin go bragh,” Lucier said.