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The 2012 St. Patrick's Day Parade, featuring thousands of musicians, dancers and floats, takes place is set for this Sunday, March 11; it's the 242nd annual Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade, the second oldest in the country. (Photos courtesy Irish Philadelphia)

Philadelphia’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be back this Sunday, March 11, as thousands of festively green-bedecked spectators line the Ben Franklin Parkway to enjoy the city’s largest parade.

The event features 20,000 participants representing more than 150 groups including marching bands, dance groups, youth groups, Irish associations and impressively decorated floats.

The first documented St. Patty’s Day Celebration Parade in Philadelphia was held in 1771, making this year’s the 242nd year. Check out our pocket guide to enjoying the parade, below:

Parade Route

The parade begins at 16th and JFK Boulevard before making its way down the Ben Franklin Parkway. Click here for the full parade route, or check below.

A series of awards are given to parade performers, ranging from Outstanding Float to the group that best exemplifies the spirit of the parade, so you can weigh your own opinions against the judges’ decisions, revealed April 18 at a ceremony at Finnigan’s Wake. Call (215) 983-7224 for tickets ($25) to that ceremony.

Where to Watch

Some best bets for vantage points include Logan Circle and the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where a dance floor will be set up at Eakins Oval. You can also station yourself anywhere along the Parkway. BYO snacks and camera.

If’s it rainy or chilly, you can watch it live on CW Philly 57 from 1-4 p.m.; it will also stream live on the station’s website.

See below for a map of the parade route.

Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade
When: Sunday, March 11, beginning at 11 a.m.
Where: Begins at 16th and JFK Boulevard
Cost: Free
More info: www.philadelphiastpatsparade.com