Mayo parade rescheduled to avoid clash with major GAA fixture
Claremorris is set for an extraordinary weekend of celebrations as the town's St. Patrick's Day Parade committee has announced a change of date to accommodate the historic achievement of St. Colman's College boys' football team.
The parade, originally scheduled for March 17, will now take place on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m.
This decision comes in light of St. Colman's College Secondary School reaching the Hogan Cup All-Ireland GAA Colleges senior final at Croke Park on St. Patrick's Day - their first appearance in the final in 44 years.
"We're absolutely thrilled for the boys of St. Colman's and want to ensure our community can fully support both events," said Nina Pilbrow, chairperson of the parade committee.
"By moving the parade to Sunday, we're creating an incredible weekend of celebration, anticipation and community spirit."
The parade will still feature world-renowned composer Patrick Cassidy as Grand Marshal.
Cassidy, a Claremorris native known for scoring major films like "Hannibal," expressed his excitement.
"I'm honoured to lead the parade in my hometown. This weekend will showcase the very best of Claremorris - our talent, our community spirit, and our ability to come together in celebration."
The parade theme remains "Irish Myths, Legends, and Folklore" and it promising a creative and colourful spectacle through Claremorris streets.
Highlights include:
Various community groups and businesses showcasing themed floats
Live music and dancing starting at 1:00 PM
Free Family Entertainment
Fireworks display on Sunday evening (8 p.m.) behind town square, sponsored by local company CBE
"This change has only amplified the excitement in our community," Pilbrow added.
"We're looking at an unforgettable weekend - celebrating our heritage and culture on Sunday.
It's a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together and show what makes Claremorris special."
The committee encourages all clubs, businesses and organisations to enter floats, and the entire Claremorris community and visitors to join in the festivities on Sunday March 16.
This promises to be a St. Patrick's Day weekend that Claremorris will remember for years to come.