Large crowd expected in north Longford for fourth Ballinamuck St Patrick’s parade

Preparations are well underway in Ballinamuck as the village gets ready to host its fourth annual St Patrick’s parade on Sunday, March 15 at 3pm, promising an afternoon of colour, music and community celebration.

Organisers say there has been a strong response again this year, with a large number of entries already confirmed. 

Entry to the parade is free and prizes will be awarded for the best four floats on the day.

A variety of entertainment has been organised for all ages. Face painting will be available for younger visitors and Mickie and Minnie and their friends will make a special appearance.

Also read: Music, floats and community spirit - Longford Town prepares for St Patrick's Day Parade

The Longford Samba Band will bring lively music to the parade route, and “The Rurals” band will perform on the street immediately after the parade.

Food and refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon. 

Ballinamuck ICA will serve refreshments in Johnny’s Cottage, while visitors can also call to  Bean Hive in the village. 

Food trucks and ice cream vans will be located at the ‘98 Bar’ and in the village to ensure plenty of choice for those attending.

To help ease access to the village, a shuttle bus will run from Gaigue Cross, and attendees are advised to arrive early as traffic restrictions will be in place on the day.

Also read: Ballinamuck St Patrick’s Day Parade: details of road closure and diversions

Organisers encourage everyone in the local community and surrounding areas to come along and enjoy the festivities. Updates and additional information can be found on the Ballinamuck St. Patrick’s Day Parade Facebook page.

Anyone with queries about the event can contact Dessie Connell (Chairperson) on 087 376 9274 or email Ballinmuckparade@gmail.com

The committee would like to wish everyone at home and abroad a very happy St Patrick’s Day and looks forward to welcoming visitors to Ballinamuck!

Arva 

The Arva St Patrick's Day Parade takes place on Tuesday next March 17 at 3pm. 

There is a massive €2,000 in prize money so get the floats ready. The parade is open to every group, school, business, for advertising an event or just for the craic. Entertainment in the local pubs straight after the parade until late. It promises to be a great day.

Also read: Super Cnoc Mhuire Granard crowned All-Ireland champions

Ballinagh 

The Ballinagh St Patrick’s Day Parade gets underway at 4.30pm and organisers are determined to make this year another memorable one. 

Organisers are urging people to wear something green or your best fancy dress and take part in the parade, or just enjoy the festivities. “We look forward to seeing you all there!  All schools, clubs, entertainers and groups are welcome to participate.”

Paralympian and amputee, Shane McLoughlin, who holds the Guinness World Record for the heaviest vehicle pulled by a Paralympian (a whopping 25,420 kg), is coming to Ballinagh for the Parade.

Shane has pulled trucks, a passenger ferry and has even set his sights on pulling a 290 tonne C17 cargo plane! After the parade is over, Shane will be pulling a truck through the car park behind Ballinagh Community Centre. Please come and give him a proper Ballinagh welcome and cheer him on!