St Patrick’s Day Downpatrick

In Downpatrick, the celebrations will commence at 12noon.  Residents are asked to come along to St Patrick’s Square to enjoy an array of free activities including face painting, walkabout characters, arts and crafts, balloon modelling and live performances.  Performing on stage will be the unique String Ninjas, popular tribute act, The Illegals and the fantastic nine piece soul band, The Gold Tips plus many more.

The Family Festival Village at Knocknashinna Park will be in full swing from 12noon too, where there will be the very best in homegrown talent performing live music, circus skills, pop-up acts as well as many children’s activities to keep folks of all ages entertained.

Make sure you find the perfect spot along the parade route, which will depart from the Ardglass Road at 1.30pm and will continue onto Edward Street, John Street, Irish Street, Market Street and finish at Rathkeltair Car Park. It will bring together a procession of vintage cars along with a host of floats, sports groups and community groups, compéred by local broadcaster, Gerry Kelly.

Why not also catch a ride on the `Shamrock Express` to the breathtaking Inch Abbey from the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.  Step back in time to experience traditions of days gone by with live traditional music and dance, butter and bread making, storytelling plus much more all taking place on board.

Down County Museum and Down Arts Centre also have special St Patrick’s Day events planned throughout the day starting at 11am, which includes free arts and crafts workshops, live music and dance.  For those wanting an in-depth insight into the life and works of our patron saint, The Saint Patrick’s Centre will be relaunching their St Patrick’s exhibition starting Monday 13 March.

When: Fri 17 Mar
Where: Downpatrick (Main stage St Patrick’s Square)
Cost: Free
Time: 12pm – 4pm

Visit the event website here: www.newrymournedown.org