INTERVIEW: Brendan O’Dwyer, Grand Marshal of the 2026 Hampton Bays Hibernians St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Brendan O’Dwyer has been selected to be the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Hampton Bays Hibernians St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade is scheduled to kick off at 11 am on Saturday, March 21st, starting at American Legion Post 924, located at 55 Ponquogue Ave, in Hampton Bays. The parade will step off near the Hampton Bays American Legion Post 924 and proceed west along Montauk Highway through the heart of Hampton Bays, with spectators gathering along the route to enjoy pipe bands, school marching bands, community organizations, local businesses, fire departments, and creative floats.

Mr. O’Dwyer was kind enough to share some words exclusively with Hamptons.com about his appointment as Grand Marshal, his favorite parade memories, and his homeland.

How does it feel to be the 2026 Grand Marshal of this year’s parade?

I’m incredibly honored. It’s something I never would have dreamed about or expected, and the fact that it comes from my fellow Hibernian committee members makes it especially meaningful. It’s also a real privilege to represent the Hampton Bays community, which has always been so supportive and welcoming.

When and how were you informed that you had been named Grand Marshal?

I was at a parade committee meeting, and completely unbeknownst to me, my fellow committee members had arranged with my wife, Jen, for her and our daughters, Ciara and Aisling, to walk into the meeting with the girls carrying the Grand Marshal’s sash. It was a total surprise and truly a moment I will remember for the rest of my life.

Do you remember your first Hampton Bay Hibernians St. Patrick’s Day Parade?

Yes, it was 20 years ago this year. At the time, I was simply a regular parade attendee, but even then, I could see how the parade energized the crowd and how proud so many people, both participants and spectators, were of their Irish heritage.

Are there any similarities between the East End and Ireland? 

There are definitely similarities, especially the coastal setting and the strong sense of community. Hampton Bays, in particular, has that same village feel you find in Ireland, where it is small enough that people are connected through the schools, local organizations, and clubs. One difference, of course, is the weather. We experience more defined seasons here, whereas Ireland’s weather tends to be far less predictable.

Tell us about your hometown in Ireland. What was it like growing up?

I grew up on a primarily dairy and beef farm in a place called Pallasgreen in County Limerick. I’m the youngest of seven, six boys and one girl. Growing up on the farm is likely where my interest in horticulture began, which eventually led me to study it and ultimately brought me to Summerhill Landscapes on the East End of Long Island.

I have wonderful memories of growing up there with my family and playing Gaelic hurling and football with my friends. I still love going back to see family and friends and to visit my hometown whenever we can, with Jen and our two girls, so they can experience some of what I enjoyed growing up.

For more info, visit Hbstpatricksparade.com