St Patrick’s Day 2023 is almost upon us and committees around the county have been working tirelessly to bring the festivities to life this Friday.
The Portlaoise parade returns this year for the first time since 2019 where the Laois ladies footballers, winners of last year’s All Ireland intermediate title, will be the grand marshals.
In Clonaslee, there is €1,000 in cash available for the most impressive floats – with the overall winner set to walk away with €500. There are then five €100 prizes for each of the category winners.
The Brazilian ambassador, no less, is set to be present at a Samba-themed parade in Mountrath.
Most parades will be joyous community occasions with local clubs and groups set to be represented in good humoured fashion with plenty of colour, craic and ceol on display.
Local halls will no doubt also be stocked high with tea and refreshments.
As it stands the weather forecast is for a dry day but it’s March so be prepared for anything!
Plan ahead by checking out our list with times below:
- Abbeyleix: 12 Noon
- Ballyroan: 9.30am
- Clonaslee: 12 Noon
- Durrow: Celebrations will run from 12 Noon to 3pm with the parade starting from Erkindale at 1.30pm.
- Graiguecullen: 11am leading to 11.30am mass
- Killeshin: 10.30am, leading to 11am mass
- Mountrath: 12.30pm
- Portlaoise: 12.30pm from Laois County Council.
- Rathdowney: 12 Noon
- Rosenallis: 3.30pm
- Spink: 10.15am
- Stradbally: 11am from the top of the town (Rathmore Rd) proceeding down the town for mass at 11.30am.
- Timahoe: 10am leading to 10.30am mass
- Vicarstown: 9am leading to 9.30am mass
As always, we’ll have plenty of colourful coverage on site throughout the day so keep an eye on our website and socials.
If we haven’t listed the parade in your area, please get in touch and we will update this article.
SEE ALSO – In Pictures: All the glitz and glamour from the St Conleth’s Ladies Football Dinner Dance
