Large crowd expected at vibrant Lanesboro Ballyleague St Patrick's Day parade

One of the county's most vibrant St Patrick’s Day Parades takes place every year in Lanesboro and Ballyleague.Local businesses and community groups put in tremendous efforts to the floats for this engaging community event.

“It's going well. We had our launch earlier in the month and we are all really looking forward to it,” organising committee member Teresa Costello told The Leader.

“We don't have a theme for our parade, this gives the groups involved a wide scope to bring colour to the day,” Teresa explained.As usual the parade commences with the gathering of floats at the St. Faithleachs GAA Club House for a departure time of 2.30pm, before travelling through the town to Lanesboro Community College. St Patrick’s Day Mass will be celebrated in St Mary’s Church at 11am and it includes traditional musicians, parish choir and champion dancers.

The Lanesboro and Ballyleague St Patrick’s Day Parades organising committee member says: “The mass is really the start of the day, it's so popular. We have a very accomplished local choir, with traditional musicians and a world champion dancer performing on the altar. That sets the tone, recognising the importance of music as part of the day.”

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There is always a good turnout, both from the public and the floats, for the annual event: “Our traditional music in town is always very popular. You always get a good crowd because of that.

“Last year we had a group of Ukrainians who were staying in Lanesboro march in the parade with flags. I remember when we played their National Anthem many of them broke down, it was just so emotional. I have received their application to return this year. It's going to be a huge turnout."

As usual there will be a number of category winners; Best Club, Best Junior, Best Vintage, Best Business, Best Dressed Window, Most Original and the Best Overall Float.

Teresa encouraged people to visit the town for the celebration: “I would encourage everyone to join in the community and get involved on the day. It is a good deal of work in the organisation, but when you see the faces of the children, and the happiness they feel it makes it all worthwhile.”

For further information or details on how to participate in the parade contact Teresa Costello or Freda Connaughton.