In photos: Atlanta celebrates St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day may not be until Friday, but the spirit arrived in Atlanta early, with the Midtown St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday.

Thousands of green-clad revelers lined Peachtree Street between 15th and 5th streets to catch a glimpse of marching bands, dance troupes, bagpipers, and even a few alpacas.

While Boston, Chicago, and even nearby Savannah go all out for the occasion, the Atlanta parade is nothing to dismiss. According to the organizers, the parade dates back to 1858, making it one of the oldest in the country.

The parade kicks off a week of festivities in the city to celebrate America’s favorite Irish holiday.

So expect the party to continue through next weekend.