CANCELED: Irish Flag Ceremony

Along with the first robin sighting, another harbinger of spring’s arrival is the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade around the Square. Unfortunately, the often-uncooperative March weather has proven a big concern for events this Sunday, and parade organizers have made the decision to cancel the 2026 parade. The Dane County Shamrock Club's annual Irish flag ceremony in the Capitol preceding the parade is also canceled.

March 13 update from parade organizers: The Madison St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, has been canceled due to winter weather and out of concern for the safety of participants, volunteers and spectators.

Parade organizers made the decision after closely monitoring the forecast and considering conditions that could affect travel, parade staging and spectator safety around the Capitol Square.

“This decision was not made lightly,” Joe Herr, event spokesperson and member of the organizing committee, said. “The safety of everyone involved in the parade and those who come to celebrate is our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused and look forward to celebrating together again next year.”

Any pledged donations to Logan’s Heart and Smiles and DAIS will still go to the organizations.

Raffle tickets can still be purchased. For more information about the raffle and purchasing tickets, email edj336@yahoo.com. If any parade participants have questions, please contact Lucas Molloy directly.

media release: You Are Invited! Come as you are, all are safe here. In 2026, the Dane County Shamrock Club celebrates its 52nd year! Join us in celebrating all things Irish, raising the flag of Ireland in the Wisconsin state Capitol Rotunda, noon on March 15! All are welcome. FREE and open to the public. No ticket or reservation is required.

Come celebrate All Things Irish with the Madison Pipes and Drums, Irish step dancers, Irish music, and a short program, introducing our Irish Person of the Year (our very own Steve Goldberg) and raising the Irish flag in the Rotunda. Come early for the best view.

The Madison St. Patrick's Day Parade immediately follows our program, stepping off at 1:30pm, and marching around the Capitol Square.

Questions? Email to danecountyshamrockclub@gmail.com and see our website at:www.danecountyshamrockclub.org

See us on Facebook and Instagram @danecountyshamrockclub