State Representative Michelle McGaw  (District 71, Tiverton, Little Compton and Portsmouth) had special guests when the House celebrated St. Patrick's Day Thursday: Organizers of the world's shortest St. Paddy's Day parade, which steps off for the third time this Sunday, March 17.

“Chuck Kinnane and his family and friends decided that Adamsville would be a great spot to celebrate St. Patrick's Day,” she said. “This parade showcases the personality and giving spirit of Little Compton residents. Young and old, Irish and non-Irish come together to enjoy the festivities.”

The parade is indeed the world’s shortest and tops out at 89 feet, one foot shorter than a similar parade held for years in Hot Springs, Ark. But McGaw said what it lacks in size, it makes up for in spirit.

“I can assure you that this parade is not short on celebration or talent,” she said. “This may be a small parade in a little village of a small town, but there is nothing small about the spirit this event brings to our community."

Organizers, including the Kinnane family and friends of Little Compton, started the parade as a joke in 2022, and decided from the beginning to make it a fund-raiser for the Little Compton Food Bank. To date, they have raised more than $20,000 and expect another successful year.

Joining Rep. McGaw as special guests during Thursday’s House session were parade organizer Chuck Kinnane, this year's parade grand marshals David and Diane MacGregor, and John Sperduti, treasurer. Other parade organizers, including Charles and Sue Kinnane, Karey Kinnane and Maureen Rego, were present in the gallery.

The parade steps off at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 17. Organizers ask that if you plan to attend, please carpool to ease parking and traffic congestion on tiny downtown Adamsville.

This year’s corned beef and cabbage fund-raiser and post-parade concert by Green Road are sold out, but you can purchase other gear to benefit local food banks here.