Belton’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade boasts more than 40 years of tradition

By Kristina Light

In 1984, Wendell Ivers decided his hometown needed a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Forty-plus years later, the Belton St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become one of the city’s favorite annual events, complete with marching bands, floats, fire trucks, horses, and a leprechaun.

“My family used to run the Western Auto on Main Street,” said Darin Jones, who has coordinated the parade for years. “I remember the first parade, and Wendell, who worked at Dryden’s Drug Store across the street, told everyone that day that there would be a parade at 5 pm. My cousin drove a riding lawn mower for our shop’s first entry in the parade.”

Jones has watched the event grow over the years. Formal judging and trophies have come and gone over the years, but the spirit hasn’t changed much. Local businesses, scout troops, farms, high school bands, and neighborhood families still show up year after year. John Waters makes his annual appearance in a leprechaun costume. A costumed brown bear carries the Irish flag, earning the unofficial title of “Flag Bear-er,” and candy remains a highlight for kids lining the route.

This year marks a transition. Jones is stepping down as coordinator and handing things over to the Belton Main Street Coalition, a group of downtown business owners, nearby residents, and city council members. The Coalition is assisting with this year’s parade before taking over leadership in 2027. Each year, local businesses donate toward expenses, with remaining donations ranging from  $500 – $1,500 going to local charities, including Heart and Hand, Hope Haven, and others.

After the parade, spectators can enjoy food and drink at Broken Hatchet, 501 Main Bistro & Kitchen, and Tara’s Café and Malt Shop, all offering specials following the parade.

For Jones, the joy of the event has always come down to one thing: “I hope kids get a handful of candy and have a lot of fun,” he said. “I love to watch everyone leave as families with smiles and happy memories, as they talk about what they saw. I love to see the joy it brings families.”

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