St. Patrick's Day observations have taken many forms over the years, but the parade has consistently been the most popular. In 1874, The Dispatch reported on three evenings of St. Patrick’s Day entertainment: the Opera House, the ball at City Hall and the “grand parade."

Boston's St. Patrick's Day parade marched through Southie Sunday with no major issues or incidents, compared to a year ago.Thousands of people lined the parade route as the annual procession started earlier than usual this year,

Paul Healey, of Holbrook, walks with friends toward the action of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, in South Boston. – Pat Greenhouse/ The Boston Globe Participants dressed as Min