Guide to St Patrick's Day parades in Louth

Crowds are expected to descend on Dundalk, Blackrock, Ardee, Drogheda and across Louth today for St Patrick's Day celebrations. Here is a guide to when parades will be taking place across the county today.

Dundalk - A World of Imagination is the theme of this year's parade in Dundalk. The theme is designed to inspire innovation, encourage artistic expression, and highlight the extraordinary imagination within the Dundalk community.

The parade starts at 1pm from Patrick Street, and makes its way through the main streets of the town. This year’s parade will also see the return of the dedicated sensory zone along Dublin Street, providing a quieter, more accessible space along the parade route for families and individuals who may benefit from a calmer environment during the celebrations.

There are two dedicated wheelchair viewing areas one at the St Nicholas Church (Green Church) Church Street and the second at the Market Square. 

Following the parade, the celebrations will continue with family fun in Market Square, where there will be live entertainment throughout the afternoon. Tribute acts and a DJ will take to the main stage, creating a lively atmosphere for families and visitors to enjoy.

Read also: Motorists advised of lane closures in two parts of Dundalk this week

Adding to the excitement this year, Circus Vegas will also be taking part in the Dundalk St. Patrick’s Day Parade for the first time. The internationally renowned circus will be in Dundalk at the Marshes Shopping Centre from 17th to 22nd March, with shows taking place daily.  

Blackrock - The theme for this year's Blackrock St Patrick’s Day Parade is Marine Diversity, and is a celebration and appreciation of our the village's beautiful coastline. The parade leaves St. Fursey’s, Cockle Hill at 1:00pm and walks through Blackrock

Ardee - The Ardee parade begins at 3pm, starting at the Fair Green and finishing at the John Street / Hale Street junction. The parade can be viewed anywhere along the route, with the main viewing area, where the MC will be located, on Castle Street. Ardee Tidy Towns are set to be Grand Marshalls of this year's parade.

A designated wheelchair viewing area will be available on Castle Street, directly across from the viewing stage. Live music begins at 2:00pm on the viewing stage, and there will also be an opportunity to meet the Vikings at Ardee Castle. 

The stretch from Brian Muldoon’s to the far side of the bridge will be a designated relaxed zone. Participants are asked to refrain from using horns, sirens, or other loud or sudden noises in this area.

Cooley - A fun packed day for all ages is planned for the Cooley St Patrick's Day Parade. The parade starts at 1pm from The Bush and is set to arrive at Cooley Kickhams for 2pm, followed by music & kids disco. Refreshments will be available from A91 HQ and the A91 Street Food trailer.

Drogheda - St Patrick's Day festivities in Drogheda began on Sunday, with the theme of this years festival being Once Upon A Panto, marking 75 years of the Drogheda Pantomime Society. The centrepiece of the celebrations will be the St. Patrick's Day Parade on Tuesday at 12 noon where the streets will come alive with colour, performance and celebration.

The parade route will start at Palace Street, cross St Mary's Bridge, continue down Marsh Road and disperse at Scotch Hall Shopping Centre. There will be a dedicated Sensory Area on Dominic’s Street to ensure the event is welcoming and inclusive for everyone. The celebrations culminate with family entertainment throughout the afternoon.