Mayo astronaut Norah 'honoured' to lead parade in her home town

Ballina is set to celebrate this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in stellar fashion, with aeronautical engineer and aspiring astronaut Dr. Norah Patten named as Grand Marshal for the 2025 event.

The announcement has been met with great excitement, as Dr. Patten continues to inspire a new generation with her journey toward becoming the first Irish person to travel to space on a future research spaceflight with Virgin Galactic.

A proud native of Ballina, Dr. Patten was announced as a crew member with the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS) IIAS-02 mission and has spent years pursuing her dream of space travel.

With a background in aeronautical engineering, she has worked extensively in the field of space exploration, advocating for STEM education and inspiring young people across Ireland and beyond.

Her selection as Grand Marshal celebrates not only her remarkable achievements but also Ballina’s strong ties to innovation and ambition.

The 2025 Ballina St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Monday, March 17, at 3 p.m., with a large crowd of spectators expected to line the streets to celebrate Irish culture, heritage, and community spirit.

This year’s theme, 'Reach for the Stars,' is a fitting tribute to Dr. Patten’s incredible journey and serves as an inspiration for all.

Ballina Chamber of Commerce President Mary Moyles expressed her delight at the announcement, highlighting the importance of the event.

“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a key event in Ballina’s calendar, bringing the community together while showcasing the best of our town to visitors.

"Having Dr. Norah Patten as our Grand Marshal is an incredible honour, as she represents ambition, perseverance, and achievement.

"She is an inspiration to young people across Ireland, and we couldn’t be prouder to have her leading this year’s celebrations.”

Meanwhile, Mairéad Melody Carr, manager of Mayo North Tourism, emphasised how the event strengthens community ties

“At Mayo North Tourism, we are always delighted to help festival committees promote such fantastic events. St. Patrick’s Day is a hugely significant occasion for our region, drawing visitors and bringing people together.

"This year’s theme, ‘Reach for the Stars,’ aligns perfectly with our goal of encouraging people to dream big, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Ballina for what promises to be a spectacular celebration.”

For Dr. Patten, leading the parade in her hometown is a special moment.

She said: “It is an absolute honour to be named Grand Marshal for Ballina’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Ballina has always been such a special place to me and I’m thrilled to celebrate this occasion with my home community.

"I hope that this year’s theme, ‘Reach for the Stars,’ will inspire young people to dream big and follow their passions, just as I have.”

The Ballina St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee invites local businesses, community groups, and individuals to take part in this year’s event.

If you would like to get involved, please contact chamber@ballina.ie for more information.

Be sure to mark your calendars and join the celebrations as Ballina proudly honours Irish pride, culture, and one of its brightest stars!

For updates on the parade, follow the festival committees Facebook page: @stpatricksdayparadeballina