Local school sets the green tone for Tullamore St Patrick's Day Parade

ST Joseph's National School in Arden View, designated as a Green School, set the tone for this year's St Patrick's Day Parade with a huge display of colour for an official photograph with the Parade Committee on Friday last.

"We were thrilled to witness the massive display of green when we attended St. Joseph's National School on Friday last as we continue to promote the parade.  No less than 406 pupils turned out wearing something green and the staff did likewise.  We would like to thank the principal, staff and all the  parents for working with us for  this event.  The atmosphere was fantastic as the pupils were so proud to be part of the occasion and stated that they would either be in the parade or attending as onlookers.  St. Patrick was there to greet them also and this greatly amused the pupils.  We choose St. Joseph's for the photo as their designation as a Green School fits in very well with our promotion this year of the work of the Tullamore Tidy Towns Committee," outlined Sean O' Brien, Parade Secretary

“The theme of the parade this year is   "Tidy Towns-our community effort. Is feidir linn le cheile".  The work of the Tidy Towns Committee is very valuable to the whole community and Tullamore can win a National Award with a little more effort from the whole community.  We are asking all groups to reflect the theme in their entry.”

The parade takes place on Friday, March 17 starting at 11.30 a.m.  The assembly point is the car park of the Bridge Shopping Centre.  Large vehicles will gather opposite the Courthouse or in O'Moore St.  All groups should be ready for assembly by 11.00a.m. at the latest. 

The parade finishes at the GAA Center on Arden Road and no entry will be allowed to drop out before the end.

Five major bands are confirmed so far and the Army Band from Athlone will lead the parade.

Many groups have agreed to enter the parade and there is still time for any organisation to enter.  Simply call any of the contacts listed below or email  seanobrientullamore@gmail.com.  Our website is  stpatricksdaytullamore.com

“We wish to thank our many sponsors for their vital support, especially Tullamore Municipal District Council, the main Sponsor.  They also provide us with fantastic assistance on the day as they provide staff and equipment from early in the morning.  Thanks also to the Gardai and the Order  Of Malta for their assistance,” said Sean O'Brien,

As usual there are major prizes to be won for the various category winners and these will be presented at our Presentation Night on 31 March.

Dog owners are very welcome to march in the parade with their pets and there will be a special prize for the Best Dressed Dog.

Local businesses are reminded to decorate their windows for St. Patrick's week and there will be a prize for the Best Window Display.

There will be great entertainment before the parade starting at 10.45 a.m. so come early to the review stand outside the Texas store.  There is always a big crowd here so come early to get your spot.  There will be a reserved area opposite the review stand for wheelchair users and elderly onlookers.

The contacts for the parade are : Sean O' Brien 086 3892854 : Johnny O'Connor 087 2602487 : Frankie O' Reilly 087 2287550 : Martin O' Connor 083 1017012