Mayor Elorza Hosts Celebration at City Hall featuring Traditional Irish Music and Dance
Traditional Irish music and dance filled Providence City Hall today as Mayor Jorge O. Elorza hosted this year’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
“The annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is one of the City’s most beloved traditions,” said Mayor Elorza. “We are proud to celebrate the rich heritage and countless contributions members of the Irish-American community have brought to the City of Providence.”
Providence Police Chief, Colonel Hugh Clements was the keynote speaker at the formal celebration which took place on the second and third floors of City Hall. The Ceremony featured an invocation from Father Bernard O’Reilly, musical performances from the Providence Police Bagpipe and Drum Corps, Armand Aromin and Torrin Ryan, and a traditional step-dance by the Goulding School of Irish Dance.
Mayor Elorza presented the Providence St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee with a citation recognizing their contribution to the City. The formal ceremony was followed by a reception in the Alderman’s Chamber featuring traditional Irish fare.
State Senator Maryellen Goodwin, Representative Daniel McKiernan, Councilman Michael Correia, Councilman Terrence Hassett and Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan served as Honorary Co-Chairs for the celebration.