It is hard to believe that you have to go back to 2019 for the last time there was parade through the city of Armagh to mark St Patrick’s Day.
Last year, the St Patrick’s Day Celebrations Committee had hoped an unconventional alternative cavalcade would instead mark the feast of the Patron Saint but this was abandoned with the introduction of restrictions.
A spokesperson for the Committee explained that this was a long way in the making for them and there was a determination in 2022 to celebrate the day and make up for lost opportunities.
Speaking to Armagh I, they said: “The parade will be running alongside the council’s Home of St Patrick Festival which is full of different events across the city, including a fun fair in Shambles Yard.
“We applied for council financial assistance back in September, as we had been planning. A lot of people were concerned given Covid but as we have got closer more restrictions have lifted.”
With plans beginning in November, the committee are now in full flow meeting every week to ensure the day goes without a hitch.
“We love to make the parade as colourful as possible,” said the spokesperson. “It does take a lot of work organising and even if you give people all the time in the world they will still want to be involved at the last minute, that’s just the way it is.
“We are always looking for people who want to be involved in the parade, either on the floats or those who wish to help in stewarding the event. All are welcome.”
The parade will begin with assembly at 1.45pm at the CBS Car Park.
Any group or individual interested in participating can contact the committee on 077 5994 9314 or via email stpatrickmarch387@gmail.com.
