New Dublin festivities return in 2022

By John Faucher

After a two-year hiatus the leprechauns of New Dublin can fully show their rosy grins again.

COVID-19 abruptly canceled the Shamrock Club’s grand parade and Irish Fest in New London in 2020 1nd 2021.

The annual event draws thousands of visitors to the city and contributes to the area’s economic vitality.

Shamrock Club members helping coordinate the weeklong event, recently verified plans are in play for its full return in 2022.

Irish Man and Irish Rose are Lamar and Jane Wilson.

Dick Johnson is the 2022 Parade Grand Marshal.

Johnson is a former WLIH radio personality and retired city of New London cable producer. He has been a community volunteer and longtime supporter of the Shamrock Club’s St. Patrick’s celebration.

Tom “Mooch” Barrington said that the club found a creative way to ask Johnson if he would accept the honor of Grand Marshal.

“Dick was playing Santa at the recent Thern Farm Christmas event,” Barrington said.

Leah Looker, Shamrock Club member and daughter of the late Judy McDaniel attended the event and made her way to Santa’s knee with a Christmas wish list.
“There were four things on the list,” said Barrington.

“Toys, jewelry, world peace and Dick Johnson to be our Grand Marshal for our St. Patrick’s Festivities.”

“We knew it would be hard for him to say no to Leah Looker,” said Barrington with a chuckle.

“Of course, he said yes,” reported Barrington.

Save the date

The 2022 St. Patrick’s week celebration in New Dublin begins Monday March 14. The Grand Parade and Irish Fest is Saturday, March 19.

Irish Fest bands are Sheamus Fitzpatrick and the McNally Boys, Tallymore and the Scrubbers.

For more information, visit newdublin.com.