Tullamore St Patrick's Day parade officially launched
This year's St Patrick's Day parade in Tullamore was officially launched at the Church of the Assumption yesterday (Monday), with a stained glass window depicting St Patrick in the background.
The location was chosen to emphasise the theme of the parade this year, which is 'Beannachtai La Fheile Phadraig', meaning the blessings of the feast of St Patrick on all.
The Tullamore parade committee is asking participating groups to reflect the role of St Patrick in our history and heritage and emphasise that all are welcome to participate in the parade.
The Parade takes place on Tuesday, March 17, starting at 11.30am. The assembly point is the car park of the Bridge Centre for community entries and Cormac Street for business entries and large floats.
The reviewing stand will be located in Colmcille Street, near Mac's Cabs. Tullamore Comhaltas will provide entertainment at the reviewing stand from 10.45am and the official opening of the parade takes place at 11.15am.
The Grand Marshal this year is Gráinne Walsh, Paris Olympian and World bronze medal winner in boxing.
A reserved seating area for elderly and people who need an accessible area is to be put in place opposite the reviewing stand. O' Connor Square will be the site of a special area for those with sensory issues.
The National Ambulance Service Pipe Band and Colour Party will perform in the parade for the first time this year, and they will be joined by Mullingar Town Band and Clara Town Band.
Businesses are encouraged to decorate their windows and to compete for a special prize for this category. There will be many prizes for the various categories in the parade and these will be presented at a special event two weeks after the parade. Dog owners are encouraged to take part also and a prize will be presented for the 'Best Dressed Dog'.
The committee wishes to thank the public for their generous contributions to the Church gate collections last weekend. Gratitude was also expressed to the many businesses who have contributed to the business collection, with the committe stating that these contributions ensure Tullamore will "continue to deliver the biggest parade in the Midlands".
Contacts for the parade are Frankie O'Reilly (087 2287550), Sean O'Brien (086 3892854), Martin O'Connor (083 1017012) and Johnny O'Connor (087 2602487). Email: seanobrientullamore@gmail.com or visit the parade's website at: www.stpatricksdaytullamore.com.