South Mayo town ready for spectacular St. Patrick's Day celebrations

The Claremorris St. Patrick's Day Parade organisers have announced a full day of festivities on Sunday, March 16, promising an unforgettable celebration for the entire community.

The day begins at 1 p.m. in the Square with vibrant traditional Irish music and dance.

The highly anticipated St. Patrick's Day Parade will commence at 3 p.m., featuring over 30 floats (with last-minute applications still being accepted).

The celebration will continue in a spectacular fireworks display at 8 p.m., with optimal viewing from the back of the Square followed by the “Hooley in the Hall” (a traditional music and dance event in the Town Hall in association with Claremorris Community Sports & Recreational Centre) starting at 8.30 p.m.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy a variety of free entertainment, including free bouncy castles, face painting and zorbing balls.

Food and drink stalls will also be trading, offering a variety of refreshments.

The parade itself will be a highlight, featuring renowned composer and Claremorris native, Patrick Cassidy, as Grand Marshal.

Attendees can expect to see lively pipe bands, favourite characters, local clubs, businesses, and representatives from St. Colman's College senior school teams (past and present), with the current team preparing for their Croke Park appearance the following day.

"We are truly overwhelmed by the incredible enthusiasm from the Claremorris community," said Nina Pilbrow, chairperson of the organizing committee.

"From our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers to the impressive number of float entries from local clubs and businesses, this promises to be an amazing day of celebration."

Last-minute float applications are still being accepted. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the organizers via the event's social media pages for details.

This year, the Claremorris St. Patrick's Day organisers will introduce the Liam Smyth Memorial Cup, awarded to the best float in the parade.

“Liam Smyth, a well-known and highly regarded community figure, was known for his quiet and dedicated support of numerous community projects” Pilbrow added.

“We hope this cup will be a lasting tribute to his memory."