Boston's St. Patrick's Day parade ended with no major incidents, compared to a year ago, but there were several alcohol-related arrests Sunday.Thousands of people lined the parade route in South Boston as the annual procession started earlier than usual this year,

Some attendees of the South Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade are facing criminal charges including assault and battery on a police officer.

Paul Healey, of Holbrook, walks with friends toward the action of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, in South Boston. – Pat Greenhouse/ The Boston Globe Participants dressed as Min