:Westmounters brave the cold to ride St. Patrick's Day float

Westmount's participation in the parade, with a float sponsored by the City went smoothly, according to organizers. Still, few of those who took part could recall a previous parade when the wind gusted as high, or there was as much snow about.

Around 50 Westmounters braved the elements to ride atop the float, which was a combined effort by the City's Community Events Committee and local architect Roseanne Moss. Another contingent of residents, including the Westmount Boy Scouts, marched in front.

"We had a very windy lineup position on René Lévesque," said Maureen Lafrenière, chief community events organizer for Westmount. "You sit there and wait for the parade to begin, but there's always lots to do."

A musical first was accomplished, when Gord Fisch, a musician who was fending off the cold, managed to play guitar while wearing gloves. "He did and he was playing properly," Lafrenière said.

As they walked ahead, the Scouts handed out candy. They were able to give away five cases of lollypops. The official Scout banner, which is dark green, seemed appropriate for an Irish event.

Mike Deegan, director of Westmount's Sports and Recreation Department, agreed that St. Patrick's Day is one of the most convivial occasions during the year in Montreal. He rode on the float with his nieces, Hannah and Sarah, and Diane, his wife.

"There were a few corners where the wind picked up," he said. "But for the most part, it acts as a bit of a windbreak when everyone's kind of huddled close together on the float … It still didn't damper the spirit of the day. I think people really enjoyed themselves."

Westmount Director General Bruce St. Louis, who was also on the float, agreed that while the weather was more challenging than usual, at the end of the day everybody had a good time.

"When you're parked on René Lévesque and you're not moving for about three hours it starts to get to you after a little bit," he said. "But we had a good critical mass. When you have lots of hot coffee and hot chocolate on the go it's fine."