FULL SPEED AHEAD FOR MOUNTRATH PARADE

Mountrath is expected to come alive with goblins, ghouls and all sorts of mythical creatures this St Patrick’s Day. This years theme chosen by the parade committee was picked to recognize the multi-cultural country Ireland has come. “Our theme is ‘Mythical Creatures and Characters from around the world’. We wanted something fun and abit different but also something with plenty of room for variation and thought. We also wanted to highlight the multi -cultural country Ireland has become by recognizing the growing number of different communities living in our town. We want to make them feel apart of our community by combining apart of their heritage with our tradition. Last year the Polish Community won best dressed group at our parade, everyone is welcome to take part.” Julie Bennett PRO said. With such a broad and interesting theme the choice is endless “The theme encapsulates so much from mermaids, dragons, fairies, witches, roman gods, Greek mythology or even gladiators. I imagine dragons will be a popular choice given the growing popularity of Game of Thrones and Harry Potter.” Julie Bennett added.

This year’s dedicated committee have been working tirelessly organising this years parade planning a fun, vibrant and spectacular event for all the family. “Our committee have dedicated a lot of their time to making this year’s parade truly special. We are delighted with the response we have received so far from all our sponsors, without sponsorship it wouldn’t be possible for our parade to go ahead. We have also applied for extra funding from the Laois County Council. With any event there are major costings especially when staging a big event like this. Insurance for one thing takes huge consideration and ensuring everyone’s safety has to be paramount.” James Kelly added.

The parade in Mountrath has been an on-going tradition since 1973, with so many memorable floats over the years its hard to pick just one. “On the Mountrath Patrick Parade Facebook page we set up last year, we wanted to remind people about the wonderful parades we had in Mountrath down through the years, create a sense of nostalgia, so we began sharing old photos and the response was just amazing. We have had some fantastic floats so creative, funny and unforgettable; Mortimer’s pub for example had two iconic ones and Sheeran’s Saw Mill as well.” Julie Bennett added.

With any parade participation is key and as Cllr. James Kelly explained. “We have spent a lot of time canvassing all local businesses and clubs to participate in this years parade and we will continue to do so.The parade should be seen as a huge opportunity for all businesses, sporting bodies,community and voluntary groups,cultural displays and individual entries to showcase themselves and our town at its very best.”

If you acquire anymore information or have any questions please contact Secretary Colette Phelan 087 4162377 or PRO Julie Bennett 085 2834412