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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is set to host a full programme of St Patrick's Day celebrations across Newry and Downpatrick on Tuesday, 17 March, with parades, live entertainment and family activities planned throughout the afternoon in both locations. Events will run from 12 noon to 4pm.
Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, said: "St Patrick's Day is always a very special occasion for our district as the home of St Patrick, bringing people together to celebrate our rich culture, music and traditions. The celebrations also provide a fantastic opportunity for Newry and Downpatrick to showcase their vibrant atmosphere and strong community spirit on one of the busiest and most enjoyable days of the year."
In Newry, the St Patrick's Day parade will depart from The Quays at 1pm, making its way through the city centre. Entertainment at Marcus Square will begin from midday, with performances from Clonduff Comhaltas, Dara Hart, The Reillys and The Nooks. Local comedian and actor Rozlyn Sheridan will host the main stage throughout the afternoon. At Margaret Square, there will be the regular céilí marquee with performances from the Kilted Dance Troupe, followed by music from the Oisín McCann Céilí Band.
Additional live music will be hosted at a number of locations across Newry city centre, with the Casino Dixieland Jazz Band performing at Buttercrane Shopping Centre, Carroll School of Harp at The Quays Shopping Centre, and Yew Tree Yukes at Newry Variety Market. Families can also enjoy street trading, artisan market stalls, family entertainment and funfair rides on Hill Street. Newry Variety Market will host a special St Patrick's Day Artisan Market from 11am to 4pm.
In Downpatrick, the parade will depart from the Downshire Estate at 1.30pm, with the main stage at St Patrick's Square featuring performances from Newcastle Comhaltas, Celtic Storm, Clann Uí hUiginn and Pure Blarney. A St Patrick's Day Artisan Market will run at Grove Car Park from 11am to 4pm, while families can enjoy arts and crafts, face painting and traditional music at Downpatrick Arts Centre. Following the parade, a static display of classic vehicles from the Old Downe Car Club will be on show at Rathkeltair Car Park. A Park and Ride service will operate from Downpatrick Racecourse to help visitors travel into the town centre.
Accessible facilities, including AccessoLoo provision and sensory sessions and family activities at Newry and Mourne Museum and Down County Museum, will also be available.
Cllr Campbell added: "I would encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the parades and performances, support our local traders and soak up the fantastic atmosphere that makes St Patrick's Day here so unique."
Everyone is advised to arrive early and plan their journeys in advance. Further information on the full St Patrick's Day programme is available at www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com
