A touch of normality will return to West Tyrone this year as Omagh and Strabane host their St Patrick’s Day parades for the first time in three years.
The last two annual parades have been cancelled as a result of Covid-19 restrictions within the area, but local councils have confirmed the events will go ahead this year.
The Strabane parade will start at Holy Cross College in the town at 2pm, with several other family activities taking place in Strabane on the day.
Council mayor, Alderman Graham Warke, said the parade is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in the town and a real community effort.
“St Patrick’s Day is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in Strabane and I’m sure thousands of people will come out to sample the sights and sounds as the parade makes a welcome return,” he said.
“The festivities are a real community effort with local businesses and organisations working with Council’s Festival and Events team to bring you a diverse programme that will appeal to all ages.
“It’s a great day out with Cullen’s Fun Fair in town and live music in the Alley so I’d encourage people to come out and enjoy the day.”
In Omagh this year the St Patrick’s Day festival will be run by Dun Uladh Cultural Heritage Centre with the support of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.
While there will be no traditional parade, there are a number of live performances on the day.
Music will be the centrepiece of the action throughout Omagh, with music, dance, drama, amusements, and family entertainment on the streets throughout the day.
Music and events officer at Dún Uladh Mollie McKeever spoke of the excitement around bringing the St Patrick’s festivities back to Omagh town.
“Dún Uladh Cultural Heritage Centre are delighted to be working in partnership with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council to deliver this year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Omagh," Mollie said.
“After two years of cancelled plans and celebrations, we are delighted to be delivering this family fun festival with a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy.
“After a tough year for the arts industry, I encourage everyone to come out and support our local singers, musicians, dancers and entertainers as we celebrate the return of live music and events.”
