Saint Patrick's day festivities begin

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Hundreds of thousands of people will line Beech and Northampton Streets in Holyoke for the 62nd annual St. Patrick's parade.

The parade steps off from K-Mart plaza on Northampton St. for the 62nd annual St Patrick's Parade here in Holyoke.

The parade is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people to the city.

People told 22News the parade day has become a tradition.

It's a chance for them to get together with family and friends and enjoy the day.

Of course, local businesses are expected to benefit as well from these festivities.

A law firm is offering free cab rides all day today.

From noon to midnight, if you've had one too many alcoholic beverages, call the cab. Don't drink and drive.

All you have to do is dial **529 from your cell phone.

An operator in the area will arrange a ride for you.

Dress in layers today if you're coming to watch the parade, temperatures will be in the mid to upper thirties.

22News team both on air and behind the scenes will march in the parade.

Parade begins around 11:30 a.m.