The finishing touches are being put on parade floats and marching routines across Clare as communities gear up for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
While politicians and dignitaries are setting off to various parts of this world to represent Clare this weekend, parade organising committees are indicating that the real fun and festivities will be here at home.
Community spirit and embracing traditions appear to be the common threads running through St. Patrick’s Day plans in Clare communities this weekend.
In West Clare, Doonbeg’s float procession will kick-off at 3:30pm on Saturday at the footfall field while walkers and marchers are being advised to gather at the school at the same time.
Music and entertainment will be provided by the likes of the Tulla Pipe Band and a 40-piece Swiss marching band who’ll be celebrating their 50th year in existence.
The theme of the parade is ‘back to our roots’, and member of the organising committee Rita McInerney says it’ll be the perfect way to begin the tourist season.
In nearby Kilkee, agricultural machinery and vintage cars will be among the sights seen by onlookers in the parade there which starts at 12pm on Sunday.
Over in Killaloe, an inter-county parade will be the unique attraction as the procession there will commence at the Ballina GAA pitch at 2:15pm before heading across the bridge and finishing on the main street in Killaloe.
The Killaloe Cost Guard, Gardaí and the fire brigade will be among the participants, and organiser Arlene White says the level of support locals have given in the preparation has been touching.
Also taking place on Sunday will be the Miltown Malbay parade which will be led by the victorious Miltown Ladies Intermediate and Minor teams.
Unsurprisingly, ‘sporting heroes and traditions’ is the theme of the festivities there, and entertainment will be provided by Bríd O’Donoghue and friends from 1:30pm before the parade begins at 2:30pm.
Organising committee member David Talty says the parade is always a community effort.
Ennistymon’s parade will start opposite Supervalu at 3pm with entertainment in the square from 2pm and prizes for best walking group, best float and best dressed window to be won.
Moving north to Doolin, parade participants will assemble at Doolin Pier on Sunday afternoon before beginning their trek down Fisher Street and all the way through the village.
Local publican and committee member Patsy McDermott insists Doolin will be the place to soak up the atmosphere this Bank Holiday weekend.
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