2025 Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade Names Grand Marshal

Meet the 2025 Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal, Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien.

O’Brien, a Phoenix native, has spent much of her life, living in the District she serves. She loves the city of Phoenix and says being named Grand Marshal of the Parade is a great honor. 

“I love this city that I was born in,” said O’Brien. “I am so excited to get to represent it and my Irish background at such a fun event.”

The Vice Mayor is dedicated to her family, including her husband of 31 years, Terry, their son Thomas, daughter Amanda, son-in-law, Jordan and granddaughter Rylee. While she may have married into the traditional O’Brien name, she has a strong Irish background of her own. 

“While I did marry into the O’Brien name, my Grandfather is a Mulholland, so I have some strong Irish roots myself. I have even had the pleasure of visiting Ireland with our Sister City organization,” O’Brien added.  

The Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire, is a staple in the community, celebrating all things Irish in what has been dubbed the Greenest Day in the Desert. And remember, you don’t need to be Irish to enjoy the fun! 

"Phoenix is a city rich in diversity and culture,” said O’Brien. “Leading the parade is not just a personal celebration but a testament to our community's unity and shared values.”

The Parade is set to kick off at 10 a.m. and the route goes down 3rd Street from Oak St. to Margaret T. Hance Park. The Faire is being held at Margaret T. Hance Park and the Irish Cultural Center. At the Faire, you’ll find local and traditional Irish food and drink as well as traditional Irish Dancing and more! 

“Definitely come down and taste the different foods, meet your friends and make some new ones,” says O’Brien. “I’ll be celebrating and I think the community should too!”