The countdown is on to the St. Patrick's Day Parade, and with a week to go, we're going in depth with Grand Marshal Madonna Bugman Verrastro.

She's been volunteering United Irish-American Association for years, and this is her first time leading the parade — which she says is an honor.

"It means a lot when you're actually thinking about it and what you're representing. It's all the history and everything that comes along with being Irish and the descendants. It's a fun event, but it's also very deep rooted," said Verrastro.

Organizers say they're expecting a lot more bands and musical entries this year.

The parade runs through downtown Buffalo on March 18, starting at Niagara Square and finishing up around North Street. It starts at 2 p.m. and of course, we will be carrying it live right here on Spectrum News!