Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has announced that St Patrick’s Day celebrations will take place in both Newry and Downpatrick on Monday 17 March. As the home of St Patrick, this annual occasion is a focal point of local culture, highlighting the best of the district’s arts, heritage, food and music.
The Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Councillor Pete Byrne, shared his excitement, saying, “I am delighted that our traditional St Patrick’s Day festivities will return to the heart of Newry and Downpatrick on Monday 17 March. All are welcome to come and celebrate with us and experience the spectacle of our parades, our cultural delights and free family fun activities.”
Highlights in Newry
Between 12pm and 4pm, local performers, community groups and dancers will take to the streets in a carnival parade that travels through Newry’s centre. Hill Street and McClelland Park will host face painting and climbing walls, appealing to families seeking entertaining outdoor activities. Live music from the likes of Ceili, the Nooks, and Gavin Gribben will resonate in Marcus Square and Margaret Square, alongside lively trad tunes from Gaolta. Additionally, Newry and Mourne Museum will engage children of all ages with arts, crafts, music and sensory play sessions.
Events in Downpatrick
Downpatrick’s St Patrick’s Square will become a vibrant hub of cultural performances, with acts including country singer Cliona Hagen and the dynamic Celtic Storm Dancers. The Grove area will feature a craft and food village, while the Shamrock Express offers live music and dancing on trips between Downpatrick and Inch Abbey. St Patrick’s Village will be alive with street performers, arts activities and a full programme in the Down Arts Centre and Down Museum, where children with additional sensory needs can enjoy inclusive play opportunities.
Leading up to the festivities, Down Arts Centre will screen the acclaimed Irish documentary ‘North Circular’ on Friday 14 March. From 14 to 16 March, the outdoor fire performance Fireside Stories by renowned circus companies Nikki & JD and Lost Dog will take place in Downpatrick, Newcastle and Newry.
Looking Ahead
This vibrant celebration of local heritage, music and food underscores the significance of St Patrick’s Day in the district and invites residents and visitors alike to join the festivities. More details and the full schedule of events can be found at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk.