In recent years the Drogheda St. Patrick’s Day parade has grown into a three day celebration of all things Irish and all things Drogheda. Details are emerging of exciting plans for this year’s celebrations which are distinctly sporting in nature with FAI Cup winners Drogheda United to the fore as Grand Marshalls. 

Last year the event was expanded to include entertainment and fireworks the night before the parade. Chairperson of the parade committee, Sarah Taaffe, has confirmed that thanks to the support of Drogheda BIDS the fireworks will again be part of the programme.

“There will also be music and entertainment from the stage on West Street the night before and the day of the parade itself to make it an even more appealing family occasion with entertainment and the spectacle for all” she added.

“March 17th is a special day all across the country and world when we can celebrate all that makes our culture and communities unique and special and it has grown into a fantastic showcase and celebration of all we hold near and dear - our family, culture, community and history while being a day to enjoy for free for all the family. In recognition attendances have consistently grown over the last few years with its appeal reaching out to far and beyond.

“There has been no doubt that Drogheda has been suffering on many fronts but one thing that the town can be especially proud of is the huge growth that has taken place across the board when it comes to our sporting clubs and organisations over the last two decades.

“Many clubs have seen a huge rise in membership and most of them are going from strength to strength. Most impressively, there has been at least a 10 fold increase in the number of girls and ladies participating and becoming involved in a club, team or individual sport." 

As always the day is organised with the support of Louth County Council and last year's co-sponsors Wogan’s Build Centre and Drogheda BIDS are back on board. Again the gratitude that is owed to the support of our local Garda Siochana, Coast Guard, Boyne Fisherman’s River Rescue, Order of Malta, St. John’s Ambulance, Irish Red Cross and Louth Volunteers are always appreciated and treasured especially those who give up their own free time to make this event something we can all be proud of.

Committee Chairperson Sarah Taaffe said she cannot thank enough those who have contacted the group or Louth Volunteers to get involved in previous years. “What particularly impressed me was the number of foreign students and citizens who have joined in and embraced the Irish spirit” she said.

“Perhaps they share something significant with the man himself who returned to these shores up the banks of The Boyne to Drogheda with a mission to make an impact on these shores.”

“Once again the Committee are delighted that the Sensory Street initiative will continue on Dominic’s street ensuring anyone who needs to view the parade in a quieter environment can still come down and enjoy the parade.”

An official launch night will take place in the Marcy Hotel at 8:00PM on Thursday 27th of February where full details of the parade and the expanded programme will be announced.

It is also hoped to create a Drogheda Sporting Hall of Fame exhibition of photography and newspaper articles that will be displayed in Drogheda in conjunction with the parade this year.

Organisations and clubs who want to contact the committee or receive an application form can get in touch using droghedafestivals@gmail.com.