Strabane awash with colour for spectacular St Patrick's Day celebrations

Strabane was awash with colour, music and celebration today as thousands of people lined the streets to enjoy the town’s 20th anniversary St Patrick’s Day Parade.

Organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council in partnership with local community groups, the milestone event delivered a packed programme of family-friendly entertainment throughout the town centre, culminating in the much-anticipated parade led by Mayor of Derry and Strabane Councillor Ruairí McHugh.

Crowds gathered along the route from early afternoon to watch a vibrant procession featuring local schools, sports clubs, community organisations, dance schools and performers, all showcasing the creativity and community spirit that have made the town’s celebrations such a cherished tradition over the past two decades.

Among those taking part were pupils from St Catherine’s Primary School, Holy Cross College and Gaelscoil Uí Dhochartaigh, alongside community organisations including Lisnafin Ardnalee Trust CCDA, Sion Swifts FC, Sigersons GAA, Browne-McGranaghan Academy of Irish Dance, Emma Coulter School of Irish Dance, Much Ado Performing Arts Academy, Class Act Theatre Group and Encore PAA.

A special feature of this year’s parade was the involvement of more than 120 local schoolchildren who worked with Streetwise Community Circus in the lead-up to the event.

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The young participants delighted spectators with colourful props, banners and costumes while showcasing circus skills including juggling and stilt walking.

Festivities began earlier in the day in Abercorn Square, where local duo The Misty Days entertained the crowds with live music while children enjoyed face painting and arts and crafts.

Mayor McHugh, said he was delighted to see such a strong turnout for the landmark anniversary.

“This was a fantastic day for Strabane and a wonderful way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our St Patrick’s Day Parade,” he said.

“The streets were packed with families and visitors enjoying the colour, music and energy created by our schools, community groups and performers.

“It was a real honour to lead the parade alongside St Patrick and to see first-hand the incredible effort that has gone into today’s celebrations.

“Events like this show the strength of community spirit in Strabane and I want to thank everyone who took part and everyone who came out to support them.”

Following the parade, celebrations continued across the town centre with many local bars and venues hosting live music and entertainment throughout the afternoon and evening.

The Council thanked all the schools, community organisations, sports clubs, performers and volunteers who helped make this year’s milestone celebration such a memorable occasion.

For more information on events and activities across the district, visit www.derrystrabane.com.