The 23rd annual Springfield St. Patrick's Day Marching Band Parade is set for the Crack 'O Noon Saturday, March 15, 2008 in downtown Springfield. At least 10 competing high school bands and four non-competing grammar school bands are expected for a total of over 1,200 student musicians. In addition to bands, floats and other great entries, free helium balloons will again be handed out to children along the parade route. Watch this site for more information.