News Summary

Hilton Head Island celebrates its 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 16, featuring Diane Reilley as Grand Marshal. Diane has a long history of community involvement, especially as her family has expanded their restaurant business despite personal challenges, including her husband’s health issues. The parade is expected to draw around 30,000 attendees and will unite the community during this festive event.

Diane Reilley to Serve as Grand Marshal for 40th Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Hilton Head Island will celebrate its 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16, at 2 p.m. The event will be led by Diane Reilley, who has a rich history of community involvement, despite facing personal challenges.

About Diane Reilley

Diane hails from a large family of six children, with five girls. She and her husband, Tom Reilley, have seven children together, forming a broad familial base in the community.

• Diane has kept a low profile while her husband’s restaurant, Reilley’s Grill & Bar, became a prominent establishment on Hilton Head Island.
• The couple moved to Hilton Head from Rhode Island in 1977, initially not planning to stay.
• Their café, launched in 1982, was created to foster a “Cheers”-like environment.

Community Impact

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a significant event for Hilton Head, expected to draw approximately 30,000 attendees. This year, Diane’s role as grand marshal holds extra significance as Tom remains in an intensive care unit, marking the first parade he will miss.

The Reilley family has expanded their business into Coastal Restaurants and Bars, which now includes 11 different restaurants. Notable locations include:

• Two Crazy Crab establishments
• Benny’s Coastal Kitchen
• Old Oyster Factory
• Fish Camp locations

Diane’s Ongoing Contributions

Diane remains actively engaged in the family businesses as a food photographer and is dedicated to community service. Her contributions include:

• Volunteering with the Palmetto Animal League
• Participating in mission trips to Jamaica for 20 years

Parade Details

The parade is part of a broader event known as IrishFest, featuring various festivities. Organizers are still accepting applications for parade entrants and volunteers.

The Reilley family takes pride in the parade’s ability to unite the community, and Diane is honored to lead the event this year amidst personal trials.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Oscar Mayer Wienermobile to Stop in Hilton Head Island
Savannah Gears Up for St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

Additional Resources

• WTOC: Hilton Head Island Names 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal
• Wikipedia: St. Patrick’s Day
• WTOC: Hilton Head Island Preparing for 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• Google Search: St Patrick’s Day events 2025
• Island Packet: Local News on Hilton Head Island
• Google Scholar: St Patrick’s Day parade history
• AOL: The Iconic Wienermobile Rolls into Hilton Head
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Saint Patrick
• WTOC: Oscar Mayer Wienermobile Heading to Lowcountry Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day
• Google News: Hilton Head Island St Patrick’s Day parade