County Cork, Ireland’s beloved “Rebel County,” is famous for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality. And there’s no better time to experience this than on St. Patrick’s Day!
This year, the festivities are set to be bigger and greener than ever. Towns and villages across Cork are gearing up for parades filled with music, dance, and a whole lot of fun.
Looking to catch a parade?
Look no further! Here’s your guide to some of the biggest celebrations happening on Sunday, March 17th, 2024:
Cork City
The main event! Cork City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 1:00 PM, snaking its way through the city center. Expect a dazzling display of floats, marching bands, and local performers. The theme for 2024 is “Pure Imagination,” so let your creativity flow!
1. Ballincollig
Head to Ballincollig’s Main Street at 2:00 PM to join their lively parade.
2. Glanmire
If you’re in Glanmire, head to Upper Glanmire at 3:00 PM to see their parade led by Chief Marshall Peter Falvey.
3. Bandon
The Bandon parade starts at 2.30 pm from the St. Patrick’s Church car park.
4. Carrigaline
The parade will start at 2 pm on Main Street, Carrigaline.
5. Carriganima
The parade starts at 3 pm on Main Street.
6. Crosshaven
The Crosshaven Parade takes place on Monday, March 18, it will commence at 2 pm from the Crosshaven Boatyard.
7. Kinsale
The street parade starts at 3 pm from the New Road car park by Smith’s Supervalu.
8. Macroom
The Macroom parade will start at 3.30 pm, from St. Colman’s Park.
West Cork
1. Baltimore
The parade begins at 12 noon with all floats/groups assembling at the car park near the Garda Station.
2. Ballydehob
The Ballydehob parade starts at the top of town on the Schull Road at 1 pm.
3. Bantry
Festivities begin at 12.15 pm with Irish dancing at Wolfe Tone Square. The parade starts at 12.40 pm from the St. Brendan’s Monument with Florrie O’Driscoll as Grand Marshall.
4. Castletownbere
The parade will start at 3 pm, led by piper Etienne Baranger, and will take the usual route to the West End and back to the square.
5. Clonakilty
The Clonakilty parade commences at 2 pm from the Imperial Hotel.
6. Courtmacsherry
The sea parade starts at 4 pm, followed directly by the land parade from the Courtmacsherry Hotel entrance.
7. Dunmanway
The Dunmanway parade kicks off at 1 pm.
8. Kealkil
The parade begins at 3 pm. This year there is a €100 prize for the best entry and €50 for second place. Participants don’t have to enter a traditional float, as cars, bikes, tractors, or walking are all welcome once it’s creative.
9. Schull
The parade starts at 2.30 pm at the Schull Harbour Hotel.
10. Skibbereen
The Skibbereen parade begins at 3 pm from the Children’s Playground on Cork Road.
North Cork
1. Boherbue
The parade takes place after the 10.30 am mass. Donal Curran will assume the role of St. Patrick and 4th class pupil Marc O’Connor will be Grand Marshal.
2. Buttevant
The parade starts at 10 am at Barrack Gate and ends at the Kanturk Road junction
Beyond the Parades
County Cork’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations extend far beyond the parades. Expect traditional Irish music sessions in pubs, lively céilidhs (traditional dances), and special events throughout the weekend.
Top Tips
1. Plan ahead
Parades can get crowded, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
2. Dress for the weather
March weather in Ireland can be unpredictable. Pack layers and rain gear!
3. Embrace the spirit
Wear your green with pride and get ready to experience the magic of County Cork on St. Patrick’s Day!
Sláinte (health) and happy St. Patrick’s Day from County Cork!