Hollywood actress to join Swinford’s virtual St. Patrick’s Eve celebrations
Marching bands, tin whistles and a colourful display of vintage tractors were always components at one of Mayo’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades.
However, due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, the Swinford St. Patrick’s Day parade will be going virtual for the second year in a row.
The Swinford community is determined to bring positivity to those at home and abroad, while celebrating a tradition that is so dear to their hearts.
Swinford’s parade dates back to 1951 and this year would celebrate its 70th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Determined to mark the occasion, the Swinford Chats Podcast with Tommy Stenson and Cathal Kelly have teamed up with the town’s parade committee to broadcast a two-hour special video live stream on Facebook and Youtube tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8 p.m.
The broadcast will feature a host of guests from the world of music, sport and business.
There will be a special focus on the diaspora.
Hollywood actress and comedian Jane Lynch, who is best known for her starring role as Sue Sylvester in the Fox musical comedy series Glee, confirmed that she would be joining Cathal and Tommy to celebrate her Irish roots on St. Patrick’s Eve.
The American star has a strong connection with the East Mayo town having first visited there in 1996.
Lynch’s grandparents Mary Lynskey and William Lynch, grew up a few miles from Swinford before emigrating to the US in 1918.
Speaking on the announcement, chairperson of the Swinford St. Patrick's Day parade committee and podcast host Cathal Kelly said; "'During this unusual time I am delighted and proud that we will all be able to celebrate our Swinford St. Patrick's Day special online.
"This year of Covid has been a hard time of loss, sadness and struggle for many.
"Months of social distancing has taken its toll. We felt that it is important that we look forward positively and continue to honour this great Swinford tradition.
"I know you will enjoy the wonderful chats and music we will bring to you on this special broadcast as we mark our 70th Swinford St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Safe wishes to you all and enjoy the show!"
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