Waterford City and County Council is proud to present a three-day celebration to mark the St. Patrick's Day period in style this year. The event will feature live entertainment, music, and traditional activities from March 17th to March 19th alongside the traditional St. Patrick's Day Parade, themed ‘The Best of Waterford’.
ParadeThe parade will begin at 1pm sharp on Friday 17th, St. Patrick's Day and will be led by Grand Marshall, Kelyn Cassidy, a national boxing champion from the Saviour’s Crystal Club in Waterford City. This will be a bumper parade with over 2,000 participants scheduled to take part.
Optimum viewing positions are from the Quays, where there is plenty of room as well as the Mall. The parade will end at the Mall / Parnell Street junction and we ask that patrons do not congregate in Parnell Street as this area is designated for post-parade and production staff.
A special area has been reserved and sign-posted for wheelchair users / special access at Mall Lane. This is on a first come, first served basis and intending patrons should make themselves known to stewards.Last minute entries to the parade are still open to community groups from Waterford City, County and beyond – intending participants should complete the application form on the St. Patrick’s Festival website www.stpatricksfestivalwaterford.comProgramme of EventsWaterford City and County Council is working closely with local company EveryEvent and the organising committee to deliver a top-class musical, cultural and entertainment program to suit all tastes.The musical talent this year is diverse, with a special performance on Saturday March 18th from the Music Generation Harp Orchestra, where more than 45 young harpers from Laois, Louth, Mayo, and Waterford will gather for a special performance on the Cultural Quarter Stage, O’Connell Street.
The music and entertainment continues on Saturday, centring around the three main squares of Waterford city and the Cultural Quarter in O’Connell Street.
Arundel Square will feature the likes of the Wobbly Circus, orienteering, and a balance bike track. Down in the Apple Market, patrons can enjoy the WAMA drumming band and a showcase performance from the renowned Booley House group. Later in the afternoon and into the evening, the Cultural Quarter stage in O’Connell Street will host the extremely popular Elvis-inspired musicians Alan Power and the Aftershocks, who will perform at 8 pm. The rockabilly band, based in Waterford city, has taken Europe by storm with Power’s luring resemblance to the King himself.
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary, commented on the festival, stating that as we celebrate Ireland's national day, it's essential to remember the value of bringing families and communities together in celebrations like this. The program for this year gives us the opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage, honour the best of Waterford’s traditions, and create new traditions with new communities.
Another not-to-be-missed showcase will be a free performance from the Booley House group at Garter Lane theatre at 8pm on Saturday 18th. Book this free event at https://garterlane.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173639505Parking and Road Closure arrangementsOn-street car parking on the affected roads will be closed from 11am- 4pm on March 17th. Parking within other city car parks will be available until approximately one hour before the Parade commences at 1pm, as spaces permit.
Road Closure arrangements can be seen at https://wp.me/p7mV1y-2Qw
WeatherAs St. Patrick's Day approaches, we’re keeping an eye on the weather forecast for the big day. The current predictions suggest that it will be a mild day, but with temperatures on the lower side and a fair chance of showers throughout the day. If you are planning to attend the parade, make sure to wrap up and bring an umbrella. Despite the less-than-perfect predicted weather conditions, there's no reason why St. Patrick's Day celebrations can't still be fun and festive - just make sure to dress appropriately and keep an eye on the weather updates as the day draws nearer.
Social MediaKeep an eye on the event's social media channels for updates and information. These channels will provide you with the latest news about the parade route, timings, and any other important details that you need to know.
For your latest Waterford News and Sport, click here.
