Panhandles’ largest St Patrick’s Parade and Festival adds Grand Marshal and America’s Got Talent Finalists Santa Rosa Beach FL – The 7th Annual 30a St Patrick’s Parade and Festival has added syndicated talk show host Burnie Thompson as Grand Marshal, and America’s Got Talent finalists, Lightwire Theater to the entertainment lineup. And the fun won’t stop once the sun goes down! Stick around after dark for a sneak preview of the Northwest Florida Ballet’s upcoming performance, Lightwire: The Show! We will be visited by Kevin, one of the larger-than-life characters from Lightwire Theater. Patrons will have the chance to get an up-close-and-personal look at the magic behind the show before its big premiere on April 5th. The parade expects 50 floats and parade entries, in all shapes and sizes. Parade lineup begins at 3.00pm Saturday March 16th on 30a and heads 4 miles west, ending at Gulf Place, where the festivities continue. Texas based Celtic Rock band Cleghorn headline the entertainment that includes the Drake School of Irish Dance. “South Walton visitors and residents are incredibly supportive of local events, and the 30a St Patrick’s Parade and Festival is no exception, said Paul Vizard, event founder. Our parade entrants are higher than previous years, our festival vendor spaces are filling up, and more sponsors such as Sweetwater Brewing are contacting to be involved. The original mission to showcase local businesses along Scenic 30a is being fulfilled in a greater manner than imagined.” The Best in Parade perpetual trophy is up for grabs for the best decorated cars trucks or floats. Festival goers can purchase commemorative T shirts, experience arts and crafts, including knitted jewelry and blacksmithing, wood carving, face painting, and of course a variety of food and drinks. A few vendor table and tent spaces are still available, and businesses are encouraged to be a sponsor, details at www.30aparade.com Event Information The 5th Annual 30a St Patrick’s Parade and Festival is the largest celebration in NW Florida of Ireland’s St. Patrick’s day. The parade commences on Scenic 30a March 15th at 3pm and ends at Gulf Place in Dune Allen beach, where premier Irish Dancers and Celtic Band “Cleghorn” will perform. For details visit www.30aparade.com

30a Panhandles’ largest St Patrick’s Parade and Festival adds Grand Marshal and America’s Got Talent Finalists