South Amboy, NJ – March 15, 2026
Members of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) Princeton Chapter proudly participated in the annual South Amboy St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in South Amboy, New Jersey. Led by two FASCA counselors, seven second-generation Taiwanese American students joined thousands of participants and spectators, sharing Taiwanese culture while celebrating one of the region’s most cherished community traditions.
The parade stepped off promptly at 2:00 p.m., winding through the streets of the “Pleasant Little City.” Despite cold and cloudy weather, residents from South Amboy, nearby Sayreville, and surrounding communities gathered in large numbers to celebrate Irish heritage and welcome the coming of spring. More than 66 groups took part in the parade, including marching bands from as far away as Philadelphia, along with local police and fire departments, scout troops, community organizations, and Irish cultural groups.
For FASCA students, the experience extended beyond simply marching. It served as a meaningful opportunity to engage with the diversity that defines American communities. As second-generation Taiwanese Americans, many participants have grown up immersed in Taiwanese traditions through FASCA programs. Joining a major Irish-American celebration allowed them not only to learn about another culture, but also to represent and share their own heritage with pride.
“Events like this show how different cultures can come together in a shared community space,” one student participant said. “Seeing the pride in Irish traditions reminds us how important it is to share Taiwanese culture with others.”
The parade atmosphere was lively and festive. Marching bands filled the air with music as participants dressed in green and waved Irish flags in honor of Saint Patrick. Families lined the sidewalks, cheering as floats and community groups passed by, creating a warm and welcoming environment that highlighted the strong civic spirit of the region.
This year’s parade honored several outstanding community members. John Dragotta, a longtime employee of the Sayreville Water Department, served as Grand Marshal. Lee Steiner, a dedicated volunteer with the South Amboy First Aid Squad who has answered more than 1,037 calls, was named Deputy Grand Marshal. Joseph Britton, a retired officer from the Perth Amboy Police Department and longtime parade organizer, was recognized as Honorary Grand Marshal.
The event also drew participation from public officials, including U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, New Jersey Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez.
South Amboy Mayor Fred Henry joined the parade in what will be his final appearance as mayor, having announced he will not seek reelection.
A highlight of the parade was FASCA Princeton’s cultural presentation. Members dressed in traditional San Tai Zi (三太子) costumes—depicting the spirited deity Nezha—captivated the crowd. The colorful figure waved, shook hands, and high-fived children, drawing smiles and applause from spectators. Other FASCA members distributed Taiwan-themed souvenirs, including keychains and badges featuring both Taiwanese and American flags, symbolizing friendship and cultural exchange.
Karen Chen, a Taiwanese American and member of the South Amboy St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, has been a longtime supporter of FASCA and instrumental in inviting the group to participate over the years. “FASCA brings such positive energy and cultural richness to our parade,” she said. “Their performances and interactions with the community truly reflect what this event is about—bringing people together and celebrating diversity. We are always delighted to have them join us.”
For the students, the experience was both memorable and meaningful. As youth ambassadors dedicated to promoting Taiwanese culture through service and outreach, participating in the parade embodied their mission of cultural exchange and community engagement.
Although the chilly weather suggested that spring had yet to fully arrive, the enthusiasm of the crowd created a warm and festive atmosphere. For these Taiwanese American students, the day stood as a vivid reminder of the multicultural spirit of their communities—where Irish heritage, Taiwanese culture, and American civic pride come together in celebration.
Reported by FASCA Princeton – Skyler Chen
