Join us for the 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Saturday, March 6th at 12pm
About Us
Ballyshaners means “Old Towners” in Gaelic, the Irish language
The Ballyshaners, Inc., were founded in 1980 by a small group of dedicated volunteers for the explicit purpose of organizing a Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia. The Parade is now well into its fourth decade and the number and variety of participants is greater than ever before. The organization’s mission has grown to promoting and preserving Irish history and culture.
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The Ballyshaners are recognized by the United States Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
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The Ballyshaners, Inc.
P.O. Box 320722
Alexandria, VA 22320
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Events
The 2027 Grand Marshal:
John Henneghan Pann, best known around town as John Pann, was born from Irish Parents from County Clare and County Sligo, and discovered a lasting home and Irish Community in Alexandria. John was raised in Michigan, has lived and traveled around the world, and found his place here in Old Town Alexandria 21 years ago.
John is known for many things around Old Town, one of the most prominent as being one of the owners of John Crouch Tobacconist on King Street. John has a long standing history in Alexandria from working at O’Connell’s, TJ Stones, Shooter McGees, several local gems, and the Smoke Shop. He bought the shop with his partner Dennis Polio 5 years ago and under their new ownership, they rebranded with a logo to honor Bella, a pup that used to visit the shop regularly who passed away from breast cancer.
John has dedicated much of his life to community organizations and public outreach. He has been a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for 12 years, a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians for 9 years, and the past Exalted Ruler at the Elks for 47 years. Last year, he helped raise over $6000 by shaving his head on team O’Connell’s for the St. Baldrick’s fundraiser at Murphy’s.
John’s Irish Heritage shines through in his love for Irish music and the Irish community. He finds that the strong sense of community in Alexandria reminds him of his Irish roots. He loves living in a place that everything you could need is within a 20 block radius, including 2 Irish pubs! You can see John riding his bike around town always with a wave and a friendly hello, and sometimes a “Happy Friday!” If you’re lucky, you might even catch him in his ’84 El Camino – American muscle cars are the best thing in the world in John’s opinion. John is thrilled to represent the Irish American Community at the 2027 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He is completely in awe and honored to have the Grand Marshal sash bestowed upon him.
Stay tuned for more information about our Grand Marshal Celebration at the Alexandrian on Friday, February 26th!
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