St. Patrick's Day parade brings Irish spirit, safely, to downtown Raleigh

The 39th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade made the City of Oaks look a bit like the Emerald City on Saturday.

Even though St. Patrick's Day isn't officially until Friday, spirits were high along Fayetteville Street. Sights ranged from drummers to dancers, from marching bands to trolley pubs and animals decked out in festive attire.

"What is a parade without the Irish wolf hounds in in," asked Angie Adams, of the Irish Wolf Hound Association of the Carolinas.

Veronica McClary, brought her family, including a furry friend. "It was awesome," she said. "We loved every bit of it! All the way down to the dog enjoyed it."

Saturday's parade was the first in the city since tragedy ended the annual Christmas parade in November.

Dancer Hailey Brooks was hit and killed by an out-of-control pickup truck that lost use of its brakes during in that parade, and new regulations have been put in place.

"It seemed perfectly safe. I was comfortable as a mom," McClary said.

Any drivers were required to be at least 21 years old and could only have one passenger over the age of 18.

All children had to be supervised, and parade vehicles had to be up to date with licenses, registration and insurance.

"It looked like it was well managed," said Eva McCann

According to Raleigh Police, the day went off without a hitch, with no major incidents.