Buffalo is world famous for its long winters and brutal snowstorms. The weather typically starts to moderate in early March, and all those people who have spent the winter indoors, with quick trips outside to shovel snow, are itching for an excuse to blow off steam with a big party. This, combined with the city’s large Irish population, means that Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17th is one of the largest events and parties of the year.
There are two large annual parades that draw tens of thousands of people, who party for the duration of the parades, and then party even more at local bars in Allentown or other neighborhoods. The event is a cash cow for local businesses, who rely on the revenues from that day.
Both parades were canceled, though bars remained open, but only allowed to be filled to 50% capacity. The streets in the normally bustling Allentown neighborhood were nearly empty.
2020 Buffalo Saint Patrick’s “Celebration”
Allen Street, nearly abandoned, on the day that the downtown Buffalo parade was supposed to happen. Usually, this street would be teeming with people. 
A busker and his “crowd’ during anemic Saint Patrick’s celebrations in Allentown. 
Allen Street, nearly abandoned, on the day that the downtown Buffalo parade was supposed to happen. Usually, this street would be teeming with people. 
Allentown Bar. Allowed capacity is 50% of normal levels. 2020.
Saint Patrick’s Days from Prior Years
After the downtown Buffalo parade, many people swarm local bars and restaurants. This is a typical scene. 2018. 
South Buffalo Parade, 2018. 
South Buffalo Parade, 2018. 
South Buffalo parade, 2018. Photo ©Jack Hunter 
House party along the South Buffalo parade route, 2018. 
South Buffalo parade, 2018. Photo ©Jack Hunter 
A section of the downtown Buffalo parade. 2018. 
Along the downtown Buffalo parade route. 2018. 
A girl keeps her friend on a leash and out of trouble. Along the downtown Buffalo parade route. 2018.