A York City tradition that will turn 30 years old this year is only getting better with age.

The St. Patrick's Day Parade saw its largest crowd and biggest number of entries in 2012, said Sean Kenny, president of the volunteer committee that plans the annual parade.

About 10,000 people are expected to attend the March 16 event, which begins at 1 p.m. and cuts through York City on Market Street.

As is tradition, organizers announced their pick for grand marshal Tuesday at a news conference.

Bryan Tate, vice president of philanthropy at the York County Community Foundation, will lead the parade. Tate, who has lived in York City for 23 years, also served as chief of staff to former U.S. Rep. Todd Platts from 2001 to 2003.

Parade entries - bands, dance groups, floats, vehicles, clowns, etc. - will be accepted until Feb. 23. It costs $25 to enter. Organizers said they'll award more than $2,000 in prizes, with $400 going to the best entry.

For the third year, parade organizers have planned a unique fundraiser known as "There's Guinness In It," which challenges local restaurants to create dishes with the traditional Irish beer.

The event is planned for 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 28 at Central Market. Tickets to sample the culinary creations cost $25.

Organizers are still looking for parade sponsors. To help, contact the committee at (717) 578-0146 or YorkStPatParade@gmail.com.

More information is also available on the parade's website, www.yorksaintpatricksdayparade.org.