County Roscommon and surrounding areas are preparing for a busy day of parades tomorrow (Friday) as towns and villages across the region turn green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
The Carrick-on-Shannon and Glenamaddy parades kick off at 12.30 pm with plenty of prizes on offer for the most outstanding entries in a variety of different categories.
Meanwhile, St. John’s and Lecarrow Vintage Club will once again host the revival of Lecarrow’s 1949 St. Patrick’s Day Parade with vintage cars and tractors from the local club and floats entered by local business and community groups. Registration for the event takes place at 12 pm at Lecarrow Harbour with the parade departing at 1 pm.
Local businesses have kindly donated prizes and the organisers say they are very grateful for all the support they have received.
Elphin’s parade commences at 2.30 pm and there are over €1,000 in prizes on offer including Best Overall Float and Most Topical, as well as novelty categories such as Best Hairdo and Most Appropriately Dressed Child.
The Boyle Parade will begin at 3.30 pm. The viewing stand is to move to The Crescent this year. There will be a concert after the parade with Music Generation and DJ Rob. Lots of spot prizes on offer and a great family day guaranteed.
Ballaghaderreen’s parade sets off at 2.30 pm, entering the town from the Sligo Road. There is €1,000 in prizes up for grabs for entries in Ballaghaderreen and this year’s celebrations also include a Children’s Art Competition.
Finally, the very popular Ballintubber event will set off at 3 pm. It will feature special guest appearances from Mickey and Minnie Mouse as well as food stalls, carnival games and face-painting.
Large crowds are expected at each of the local parades so try to arrive early and follow the guidance of parade stewards and An Garda Síochána.
