Sober St. Patrick’s Day ® was created by award-winning theater and television producer, William Spencer Reilly, who almost lost a member of his family to addiction in 2004. He first proposed the idea to leaders in the recovery and Irish American communities, a pitch that led, a year later, to the 2012 inaugural party. Now an annual event, Sober St. Patrick’s Day® is held on parade day in New York City. It continues to grow throughout the world. ​

Experienced Lifestyle, Health, and Recovery Coaching professional within the Recovery, Health, and Wellness industry. Proven track record developing business opportunities and product adoption. Passionate brand ambassador with the ability to develop mutually beneficial relationships and opportunities. Website and Social Media Designer.   

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A "Communicator, Connector, Convener" with roots in Offaly, Clare, and Cork, John stepped off on New York’s “Irish Trail” in earnest 15 years ago when he helped promote the “Bards for St. Brigid’s” fundraiser to save the Lower East Side “Famine Church.” He’d serve on the board of the Irish American Writers and Artists and multiple board roles with the Irish Business Organization of New York, most recently as the IBO’s two-term “pandemic” president.

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His efforts in diaspora engagement include moderating Ireland Day at the NYSE, serving as a Belfast Homecoming Ambassador and a New York New Belfast honorary chair, co-hosting with Dublin’s own Martin Nutty the podcast Irish Stew: Conversation for the Global Irish Nation, and serving as press officer for Sober St. Patrick’s Day.

Working as VP with Goodman Media International, John has helped several Irish clients raise their profile in the U.S.

John Whelan Music

Often hailed as one of the world’s best living Irish button accordion players, seven-time All-Ireland champion John Whelan has been praised for his “humor and high energy blend with impeccable musicianship” by The Wall Street Journal. John embodies the dichotomy of being forward-thinking while still deeply rooted in tradition. He fearlessly explores the creative reaches of music, artistry, and expression while carefully preserving the musical roots from which he originally flourished and passing those on to the next generation.

Producer | Freelance Special Events | Experiential Events | Project Management | Writer | Show Caller | Live Events | Sponsorship | Event Design | Fabrication | Installation | Video Production

​Mark Steel has been the producer of the Sober St. Patrick's Day® Grand Celebration for years and we are always grateful for his expertise and dedication.​​​​​​​

Overlooking the design of Audio Visual needs for the Sober St. Patrick's Day® Grand Celebration. Operating Audio and Video hardware and software, as required on the event day.​

With J6 Media Edward's passion is to deliver outstanding video content that propels the mission of his clients forward. With nearly 30 years of experience, leading hundreds of successful video projects, his boundless vision produces award-winning content that consistently archives its goal.

BBNY Group, LLC is an experiential consultancy with a specialty in designing creative and engaging experiences for audiences. Projects include festivals, conferences, workshops, markets, catering programs, and afternoon tea salons - particularly on food, heritage, and history. From the initial consultation to the final design, content, and implementation, the commitment is to creating meaningful outcomes for all stakeholders. Bridget is also the founder of Puddings and Biscakes

Experienced communications professional with a strong business operations background. Dedicated charity trustee.

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Tami Ellen McLaughlin is a nonprofit leader with over four years of experience as the former Executive Director of Sober St. Patrick's Day®