The flag-raising usually kicks off the St. Patrick's Day festivities in Scranton. Author: Carmella Mataloni Updated: 6:24 PM EST March 7, 2021 SCRANTON, Pa. — Irish eyes were smiling when folks raised the Irish flag outside of City Hall in Scranton. Coronavirus concerns kept big crowds away, but organizers were able to come up with a way to ensure the tradition went on safely. "People look forward to it, and when you see the crowd that is actually starting to show up, it's a big deal. The Irish has been around Scranton for a long, long time," said Jack McIntyre, president of the Irish Cultural Society.