Pipes & Drums Update

Synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is the Emerald Society Pipes & Drums band – a nonprofit organization composed entirely of either retired or active duty firefighters.

The band has been marching in parades, playing at weddings, and honoring those that have fallen in the line of duty since 1962. From the handle-bar mustached drummers to the deep winded bagpipers - these guys are the real deal.

What started out as a way for firefighters to celebrate their Irish Heritage has become one of the most important institutions in NYC. The Pipes & Drums band made it their mission to play at the funeral of all 343 members of the Fire Department that died on September 11, 2001. Their courage and dedication have turned the band into a symbol of respect and honor nationwide.

The band traditionally takes the time to march in countless St. Patrick’s Day Parades every year, and regularly attends weddings of their fellow firefighters to celebrate new additions to the family. They actually march into the wedding reception room in full kilted garb, forming a bagpipers circle for the bride and groom to dance in for three songs (it’s quite the sight!).

This St. Patrick’s Day we have the honor to continue to collaborate with the band on a limited edition custom performance polo – The Pipes and Drums. It comes complete with the Emerald Society’s logo embroidered on the right sleeve and an Irish Flag inspired Ridge on the back. 20% of the sales from this polo are donated directly to the society to help in their mission of honoring the fallen and sharing the Irish culture through music and long held tradition.

We are proud to share that thanks to your support we have been able to raise over $43,000 in support of the band since the launch of the collaboration and look forward to continuing to support their mission of honoring the fallen.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day and keep an eye out for the band this St. Patrick's Day as the band returns to 5th Ave for the first time in two years for the return of the NYC parade.

Céad Míle Fáilte