This year’s extended festival follows on from the success of last year’s three-day celebrations in the city.
The parade celebrates “The Best of Waterford,” this year and will start at 1 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day, led by Grand Marshall, international boxer, Kelyn Cassidy.
Speaking ahead of the Festival, Johnny Codd, Festival Co-ordinator with Waterford City & County Council said:
“Community groups have shown great interest in participating in this year’s parade. We are pleased with the registrations that are coming in every day from various groups within the city, county, and beyond. We work closely with Waterford company EveryEvent and our organising committee, and we’re going to present a top-class musical, cultural and entertainment programme that is going to appeal to all comers.”
Foremost in the line-up of musical talent this year will be a special performance from the Music Generation Harp Orchestra who will perform on the Cultural Quarter Stage, O’Connell Street on Saturday 18th.
More than 45 young harpers from Laois, Louth, Mayo and Waterford will gather for this special performance. Music Generation Waterford is part of Music Generation, Ireland’s national music education programme initiated by Music Network and funded by U2, The Ireland Funds and The Department of Education in partnership with Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board, and Waterford City and County Council.
Commenting on the festival, Waterford City and County’s first citizen, Mayor John O’Leary said:
“As we celebrate Ireland’s national day, it’s important to remember the value of bringing families and communities together in celebrations like this. Our programme this year gives us the opportunity to reflect on our shared heritage, honour the best of Waterford’s traditions, and to create new traditions with our new communities. Let’s make sure that everyone, young and old, can participate in the fun and festivities that make this Waterford festival one to remember.”
On Saturday, March 18th the music and entertainment continues, centred around the three main squares of the city, as well as the Cultural Quarter in O’Connell Street.
Arundel Square will have the Wobbly Circus, orienteering and a balance bike track, while the Apple Market hosts the WAMA drumming band and a showcase performance from the renowned Booley House group.
Later in the afternoon and into the evening, the Cultural Quarter stage takes prominence with the very popular Elvis inspired musicians Alan Power and the Aftershocks, who perform at 8 p.m. The rockabilly band, based in Waterford city, have taken Europe by storm with Power’s luring resemblance to the King himself.
To find out more about the parade and three-day festival, visit www.stpatricksfestivalwaterford.com or keep an eye on WaterfordStPatricksDayParade social media channels.
