Mountrath Set for ‘Legends Galore’ at St Patrick’s Day Parade
Legends, film stars, sporting heroes and mythical creatures about to take over Mountrath
Legends, film stars, sporting heroes and mythical creatures are set to take over Mountrath this St Patrick’s Day as the town prepares for its annual St Patrick’s Day Parade.
The popular community event promises a vibrant celebration filled with music, creativity and local pride, as residents, businesses and community groups come together to mark the national holiday.
The parade will be led by Irish bagpiper Cormac Bowell, alongside the Grand Marshals the Camross Camogie Club All-Ireland Intermediate winning team and representatives from the Laois Junior Camogie panel.
The Mountrath Festival Committee confirmed that both sides will act as Grand Marshals for the 2026 parade in recognition of their historic achievements and their contribution to camogie in the county.
“We’re delighted to honour the Camross Camogie Intermediate team and members of the Laois Junior Camogie panel this year,” a spokesperson for the Mountrath Festival Committee said.
“They have achieved fantastic success and brought huge pride to the area. It’s important for us as a community to recognise those achievements and celebrate them.”
St Patrick’s Day celebrations will begin at 11.00am in the Square, with a full morning of live entertainment for families and visitors.
Performances will include Lynam School of Irish Dancing, Cosy Community Choir, Brian & Figs, and Camross Comhaltas, while children’s amusements and face painting will run throughout the morning.
The Mountrath Cottage Market will also return with a range of stalls offering sweet treats, baked goods and tasty nibbles.
“It’s always great to see the Square full of activity on St Patrick’s Day,” Committee member said.
Organisers say there has already been strong interest from local clubs, businesses and community groups wishing to take part in the parade.
“St Patrick’s Day in Mountrath is all about community, creativity and coming together,” a spokesperson said.
“We’re encouraging everyone to get involved whether it’s with a float, a walking group or even decorating a shop window. The more colour, imagination and local pride we see on the day, the better the parade will be.”
Participants already confirmed include St Aengus Soccer Club, Mountrath Bikers Shed, Bennett’s Bar, CJ Sheeran’s, McCartney Fitted Furniture and Phelan’s Restaurant, with more groups expected to sign up in the coming days.
“We’re seeing great early interest and we’d love to see even more clubs, organisations and businesses get involved. It’s a fantastic way to showcase what Mountrath and the surrounding area has to offer.”
The Mountrath Festival Spokesperson say the parade is also a chance to welcome home many people with strong ties to the town who return to Mountrath for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations each year. The event has become a highlight of the local calendar, bringing families, neighbours and former residents together to celebrate their connection to the community.
Parade Details
The parade will commence at 12.30pm from St Fintan’s GAA Field, with well-known MC Johnny Purcell returning to host the festivities.
“You don’t need a big budget or a large float to take part,” a spokesperson for the Mountrath Festival Committee added.
“Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most creative. With the theme ‘Legends Galore’, people can take inspiration from Irish folklore, famous characters, sporting heroes or even legends from their own community.”
A €200 cash prize and trophy will be awarded for the Best Float on the day, with additional awards for Best Shop Window, Best Walking Group, Best Group and Best Business Entry.
“With awards on offer, there’s a great incentive for people to get creative,” Mountrath Festival Committee spokesperson said.
“But above all, the parade is about community spirit and celebrating St Patrick’s Day together.”
Anyone interested in entering a float, volunteering or taking part in the parade can contact the Mountrath Festival Committee through their social media channels, where updates and further information will also be shared in the lead-up to St Patrick’s Day.