Write a commentNewry city is all ready for an incredibly busy Saint Patrick's weekend. This years parade will hopefully be the largest yet and will end with a new route along The Mall as opposed to Hill Street.
Hello Newry have produced a brochure of the main events which you can Download or View Here
The parade themed "Celebrating Belonging in the Community" will take place from 12 noon leaving The Quays Shopping Centre and making its way along Buttercrane Quay, Merchants Quay, Sugar Island, Kildare Street, The Mall, St Mary's Street, William Street and back to the front of The Quays where it will disperse.
An Open Air Concert compered by Big T from Downtown Radio will begin just after 1pm and acts performing include Luv Bug, Garth Brooks tribute band, The Professionals and finishing off with headliner Declan Nerney and his band.
As well as the concert there will be performance from Warrenpoint Comhaltas, Newry Community Band, Glen Millar Tribute Band and a Street Ceili will take place at Margaret Square.
Cullen's Fun Fair will take place at St Christopher's Park up to and including St Patrick's Day.
Other fringe events are taking place around the city.
Newry Museum has a varied programme of activities over the St. Patrick’s Weekend, for young and old.
Sunday 16th March at 2pm The Carroll School of Harp will present “Sonas in Concert” performing a selection of traditional Irish pieces arranged for a harp ensemble. Tickets will cost £3
Monday 17th March from 10am – 11.30am there will be a Jumping Clay arts and crafts workshop for children aged four and up. This will involve making your own lucky leprechaun.
An adult must accompany children. Places are limited to 20 children at £1.50 per child. Pre booking is advised.
Speaking about the events, Noreen Cunningham, Museum Curator, said “The Museum is offering a wide range of activities over the St Patrick’s weekend which will have something for everyone, including a free tour of the Museum on Sunday 16th at 3pm but remember to book”.
The Museum is open seven days a week and entrance is free of charge. For information on opening hours, events, services please telephone 028 3031 3182 / 3178 or visit www.bagenalscastle.com
For updates on the Museum like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/NewryAndMourneArtsMuseum and Follow us on Twitter: @NandMMuseum
Police in Newry are also asking for the support of all sections of the community to ensure that this year’s St Patrick's Day celebrations run successfully and smoothly.
A full programme of events has been organised and police will provide patrols throughout the area and assistance where needed.
Traffic restrictions will be in place across the city from early morning until 6pm. Kildare Street and Hill Street will be closed to traffic from early morning until evening.
Police are advising motorists who are travelling through the city to take an alternative route if possible. If you are travelling into the city or must travel through Newry you should allow extra time for your journey and expect delays.
Inspector Nigel Henry, Newry City Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "This year St Patrick's Day falls on a Monday and everyone can expect a full program of events. Usually these celebrations pass without incident and are well enjoyed by the local community and we hope that this year will prove no exception.
"As with all celebrations planned for St Patrick's Day we will provide appropriate support and assistance, and I would ask all of those with influence in the community to work with us to ensure that all events are equally supported and respected throughout the course of the day. “Some of the issues we will be focusing on are anti-social behaviour and the misuse of alcohol in public spaces. My officers will be on the streets over this busy weekend, to ensure anyone wishing to travel, work or socialise in Newry and Mourne area can do so safely.”
