Because of the forecast for rain Saturday, the 2015 Pottsville St. Patrick's day parade has been canceled.

"We have many participants that come long distances to take part in our parade, some with floats, some in traditional costume and many with musical instruments. With the forecast as dismal as it is and with the amount of rain projected around parade time, we felt it prudent to cancel the parade at this time," said Leo F. Haley, President of the Pottsville Ancient Order of Hibernians, JFK Division #2. "We would encourage our parade goers and participants to support the numerous other parades in our region, including the Girardville parade next Saturday."Although the parade is canceled, mass will still be celebrated at St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in Pottsville at 8 a.m.The Grand Marshal's breakfast will take place at 9 a.m. at Trippin' Billie on Center Street to honor the 2015 Grand Marshall, Lydia Laughlin of Branch Township.At noon, the doors of the Humane Fire Company will open for the Grand Irish Party, sponsored by the AOH with live Irish music provided by the band "Celtheart" from New Jersey.Tickets can be purchased at the door for $25.