Keystone Today

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a U.S. Congressman representing Pennsylvania’s 1st district, shared his experiences and reflections on St. Patrick's Day events through a series of tweets. Fitzpatrick has been serving in Congress since 2017, following his predecessor Mike Fitzpatrick.

On March 15, 2025, Rep. Fitzpatrick tweeted about being named the Grand Marshal of the Bucks County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee Irish Ball, an honor he shares with his father who held the same title 35 years ago. He expressed that it was "an honor beyond words," adding significance to the event given its familial connection ("What an incredible night at the Bucks County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee Irish Ball! To be named Grand Marshal of this year’s parade was an honor beyond words—made even more meaningful knowing that 35 years ago, my father held this very title as the second-ever Grand…").

Later that evening, he highlighted another tradition associated with the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade: "the Passing of the Shillelagh at the Parade Mass" at Conwell-Egan Catholic High School, his alma mater. Rep. Fitzpatrick described receiving this symbol as a significant personal honor ("At the heart of our Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a tradition that embodies the faith, perseverance, and pride that define Irish heritage—the Passing of the Shillelagh at the Parade Mass at my Alma mater, @ConwellEgan.").

On March 17, 2025, Rep. Fitzpatrick reflected on St. Patrick's Day itself as more than just a date on the calendar but as a celebration honoring "the perseverance, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit of the Irish people." He emphasized how Irish immigrants have contributed significantly to American society ("St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it is a celebration of the perseverance...").