The community braves the cold for the 43rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

SIOUX FALLS, SD (Dakota News Now) – People had to brave the cold to be in Saturday’s parade. It was colder than the parade of lights in November.

Families traveled from across the state despite challenging road conditions and wind. Many take the cold temperatures with a sense of humor.

“I’m really looking forward to this parade facing the 10 degree wind chill and if I can make it to the end it will be an absolute St Patrick’s Day miracle,” joked Grand Marshal Richard Sweetman.

“It’s a lot colder. I think it was 60 degrees last year, I was in a tank,” said Brandon resident Darrell Sipes. “It’s a little bit different. Layers and layers and layers”.

“It was cooler than the Parade of Lights and I was even moving this time,” said a participant named Lauren.

The parade was a great opportunity for business, and not just business in downtown Sioux Falls. Girl Scouts of Local 41454 sold cookies in the parade.

“It was really cold, but it was fun selling Girl Scout cookies,” said Aurora, a Girl Scout.

“I think the same as her. I think it was really fun, but a little cold,” said another scout named Natalie.

Dressing in layers was the best way to avoid the cold.

“I mean, five or six [layers] and I’m still cold,” Lauren said.

“OMG. I got thermals and gloves. Children each have three blankets and hand warmers, cups and hats. All that good stuff,” Sipes said.

Spring is just around the corner, but even the cold weather can’t stop South Dakotans from celebrating like it’s already here.

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