Each year, the Manchester St. Patrick’s Parade Committee recognizes one person of Irish heritage and Catholic faith who has contributed to the betterment of the greater Manchester area. This person is named the parade’s Grand Marshal, and marches with their family in the parade.

Nominations for Grand Marshal are due, in writing, by midnight on October 1 for the following year’s parade. The parade Grand Marshal is selected by a committee made up of the previous Grand Marshals and is announced in January.

Nominations can be submitted in writing to: St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, P.O. Box 5051, Manchester, NH 03108. Nominations may also be e-mailed to info@satinpatsnh.com or submitted using the website nomination form.

Previous Grand Marshals have included: Kay Moran, 2009; Rick Walsh, 2008; Marty Quirk, 2007; James J. Sheehan, 2006; Charles J. Quinn, 2005; Sr. Margaret Ahern, RSM, 2004; Louis J. Craig, 2003; George W.Smith, 2002; Robert J. Collins, 2001; Sr. Angie Whidden, RSM, 2000; Tom King, 1999; John "Jumbo" Reilly, 1998; Hon. Martin Loughlin, 1997; and Bishop Leo O'Neil, 1996.