ST. PATRICK'S DAY IN TULLAMORE WILL BE A FULL DAY OF ENTERTAINMENT
This year St. Patrick's Day in Tullamore will be a full day of entertainment. The Parade starts at 11.30 a.m. sharp and then from 1.00 p.m. there will be entertainment in O' Connor Sq. and hopefully Market Sq. until 5.00 p.m. The entertainment is being organised by Tullamore Municipal District Council in conjunction with the Parade Committee.
"We are delighted that The Municipal Council have agreed to fund the entertainment in the town centre for the afternoon of St. Patrick's Day. This will mean the town will be alive with entertainment for most of the day and there will also be entertainment for young people" states Cllr Sean O' Brien, Parade Secretary.
There will be face painting free of charge at the rear entrance to the Bridge Centre and also in Harbour St. from 10.30 a.m. until the start of the Parade. We may also have this in O' Connor Sq. in the afternoon.
The public are advised to come early to the Review Stand as there will be live music performed by Tullamore Comhaltas, hopefully Set Dancers, the official opening of the Parade by Phil O' Reilly Sr and the singing of Amhrain Na Bhiain by Cathy Boland. Come early and don't miss out. There will be a special seated area for elderly and wheelchair users opposite the Review Stand.
The Grand Marshall this year is Phil O' Reilly Sr. In recognition of his contribution to sport and business in Tullamore and Offaly.
Businesses are also very welcome to enter a float in the Parade. Business entries should be a maximum of two vehicles and payment can be made beforehand or on the day. We have sent letters to local businesses seeking a contribution to help with the costs in running the Parade; we thank them for their generous support over the years which has ensured that the Parade continues every year.
The Window Display competition is attracting a bigger number this year and judging will take place early next week.
Dog owners are very welcome to march with their pets and there will be a special prize for the Best Dressed Dog.
" There is also keen interest from various national groups and they are very welcome in the Parade. Our theme is "Community Spirit" and we want all groups in Tullamore to get involved. .The Parade takes place on Thursday 17th March starting at 11.30 a.m. The Assembly point is the Car Park of the Bridge Centre. The route is High St., Bridge St., Colmcille St., over the Kilbeggan Bridge and onto Arden Road, with dispersal at the GAA Centre"
