North Longford village of Ballinamuck all set for second St Patrick’s Day Parade

After a very successful St Patrick’s Day parade last year the historical north Longford village of Ballinamuck have decided to make it a regular event.

The Ballinamuck parade will kick off at 4pm and preparations are well underway by a very dedicated committee under the guidance of local man Dessie Connell.

Mr Connell explained, “We have a great group of volunteers, both young and old, which help out at all events in the village e.g. Santa in Johnny’s Cottage and our Halloween Trail which we run through our local Foróige group each year. We would like to acknowledge our volunteers from neighbouring parishes who steward for these events also.”

Following the large number of attendees last year, and with a large crowd also anticipated this Sunday, the organisers have decided to run shuttle buses from Gaigue Cross and the 98 Bar to the village. “We are asking people to arrive early as there will be traffic restrictions in place.”

Mr Connell added, “We have a lot of entries again this year and there will be a prize for the best three floats on the day. There will be lots of entertainment with the Longford Samba Band, face painting and much more, Mickey and Minnie Mouse will be making an appearance too.

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“St Patrick will lead the parade again this year and there will be refreshments available in Johnny’s Cottage and in the village throughout the day.”

The ‘Fuzzy Burgers Band’ will entertain the audience on the street from 4.30-6.30pm approximately. There will also be live music in both Dillons Bar and The 98 Bar. Dillons Bar has ‘Joe Mac and Paddy Sticks’ from 7-9pm followed by a band all the way from Kerry called ‘High Tide’. The 98 Bar will have live traditional music all day

For updates on the Ballinamuck St Patrick’s Day Parade keep an eye on their Facebook page or you can contact Dessie Connell on 087-3769274 or email Ballinmuckparade@gmail.com

Mr Connell concluded, “We hope everyone who joins us in person, will enjoy the parade and friendly atmosphere around the village. The committee would like to wish everyone at home and abroad a very Happy St Patrick’s Day.”

Photo caption: The Ballinamuck St Patrick's Day organising committee. Front row l to r; Garry McNally, Teresa McNally, Dessie Connell, Margaret Dillon, Rebecca McLoughlin. Middle; Hugh Donnelly, Darren Quinn, Breda Cassidy, Ted Gorman and Dawn Gorman. Back; Mark Cunningham, Lisa McGahern and Siobhan Mulligan. Missing from photo, Aisling McLoughlin, Annette Donnelly and Enda McKenna