OUR STORY:
A TRADITION OF CELEBRATION
Central Mississippi’s annual celebration of Spring has been described as a “green Mardi Gras” and as a “lighthearted homecoming where everyone is king-and-queen-for a-day.” It is also a celebration of the rebirth of Mississippi’s capital city, a joyous observance of what is “good and encouraging” about the heart of our state. It is a day where sense of humor and sense of place rule the day. It is a time to honor the good work of the UMC’s Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children. This rambling, outrageous, hilarious ride, starting and ending at Jackson’s favorite gathering place—Hal & Mal’s—will from this day forward be known as “Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade” in honor of Hal White.
Hal (Harold Taylor White, Jr.) was born on March 13, 1949, in a modest apartment home on the campus of Perkinston Junior College. He was the first born son of Harold Sr. and Nelda Gene, and big brother to Mal. Hal was athletic, approachable and a naturally affable kid. He was an outstanding Boy Scout, but never much of a student. He attended Northeast Community College and Mississippi State University, and learned to make a living by working hard and being nice to people.
As a self-taught chef and master soup meister, Hal was influenced by Gulf Coast and New Orleans culture and foodways. He took what he knew, studied what inspired him and worked hard to put his stamp or touch on it. He was beloved by the many people who knew him, worked with him and who had the honor of being in his company. He gave more than he took.
He loved his family and friends, his many communities, sports and the Parade. He was the natural leader of the ancient and venerable O’Tux Society, and it is only fitting that this parade and festival should now be dedicated to his good will and good nature.
Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade will live on to be many things to many people, but regardless of the words or descriptions one chooses to employ, it’s really hard to ignore its humble beginnings in Downtown Jackson, in 1983. Today’s parade, street dance, children’s activities, run, pet parade, festivals, and all the other creative components under the banner of Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade are permitted by the City of Jackson and Hinds County.
Most festivities are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to participate!
THROUGH THE YEARS
Go back in time to the good ol’ days by clicking below and exploring our historical archive!
1984
1986 Part 1
1986 Part 2
SWEET POTATO QUEENS
The Sweet Potato Queens are a vibrant and unforgettable part of Hal's St. Paddy's Parade, bringing humor, flair, and plenty of sequins to the celebration. Founded by Jill Conner Browne, this lively group of women is known for their extravagant costumes, signature wigs, and unapologetic attitude as they embrace life with bold confidence. The Queens’ larger-than-life antics and dazzling appearances have become a cherished tradition, capturing the spirit of joy and togetherness that defines the parade. They bring boundless energy, unforgettable style, and plenty of sass to the celebration.
BUCKETHEAD JUDGES
The Bucketheads add an air of mystery and mischief to Hal's St. Paddy's Parade as the parade's official judges. Known for their secrecy, they keep their identities hidden by donning elaborately decorated buckets over their heads, making them a favorite spectacle among parade-goers. With their creative headgear and playful anonymity, the Bucketheads ensure that every float, marcher, and participant gets a fair—and often humorous—evaluation, all while adding to the parade’s charm and sense of fun.
O'Tux Society
The O'Tux Society, a male marching krewe and the first walking krewe in Hal's St. Paddy's Parade, brings its own unique charm. Inspired by Malcolm White’s fascination with the tuxedo-clad marchers of New Orleans’ St. Patrick’s parade and the tuxedo’s 100th anniversary in 1986, the O'Tux Society embraces a unique approach: “our tradition is, we have no tradition other than we march every year.” Jackets are creatively paired with everything from shorts and kilts to grass skirts and other offbeat ensembles.
Our sponsor since day one!
Capital City Beverage was the very first sponsor of the Hal's St. Paddy’s Parade, setting the stage for what has become a cherished Jackson tradition. Their continued support over the years has helped the parade grow into the vibrant celebration it is today, bringing the community together with music, fun, and plenty of green! Cheers to Capital City Beverage for being a cornerstone of this iconic event!
