The Oak Forest-Crestwood Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Oak Forest are pleased to announce that St. Damian School will serve as grand marshal of the Oak Forest Fleadh family parade on Saturday, March 7. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. at 151st and Central Avenue and heads south to the Oak Forest Park District.
“St. Damian School has been an integral part of our community for more than 60 years, providing a quality education and strong foundation for students,” said Chamber of Commerce Director Kim Malecky-Iles. “As an alumna, I am overjoyed to celebrate the Lancers on Central Avenue during our signature event, which celebrates both Irish culture and civic pride.”
St. Damian School is a Catholic school offering instruction from preschool through 8th grade. The school has twice been recognized as a Blue Ribbon School, a prestigious award from the U.S. Department of Education recognizing public and private schools with exceptionally high student performance or significant progress in closing achievement gaps, signifying overall academic excellence, strong teaching, and positive school culture, with the physical blue ribbon flag becoming a symbol of quality.
As the grand marshal, St. Damian School families will lead approximately 50 parade units, including a pipe and drum band, civic and community groups, schools and churches, and local businesses along Central Avenue.
"We’re honored and excited to lead this year’s parade," said Tina Hubert, St. Damian School Board member. "This celebration unites our families, deepens our connection to the Oak Forest community, and highlights what makes it such a special place to educate our children."
Learn more about the Oak Forest Fleadh.