Dun Laoghaire’s St Patrick’s Day Parade returned with a strong maritime theme, drawing crowds of up to 30,000 to Ireland’s main boating centre.
The event got underway at 11 am on 17 March, filling the seafront with colour, music and a strong community atmosphere.
The parade route ran from Islington Avenue (Newtownsmith) along Queen’s Road to Marine Road, creating a vibrant coastal celebration for all ages.
Organisers encouraged families to attend, wear green and enjoy the festivities. An accessible viewing area was provided at Park Road and Coast Road.
Around 60 groups took part in the parade, including a significant maritime contingent.
Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr. Pierce Dargan served as one of the dignitaries, while Winter Olympian Cormac Comerford acted as Grand Marshal, contributing to the fantastic atmosphere led by Master of Ceremonies Bobby Kerr.
The Irish Naval Service featured prominently, with LÉ Samuel Beckett arriving by sea and berthing in Dun Laoghaire Harbour for the national holiday weekend. Sailors from the vessel marched in dress uniform.
The Irish National Sailing School contributed three floats, including an Optimist dinghy, a Pico and a seven-metre RIB.
Emergency services were also represented, including the Irish Coast Guard, the RNLI and Civil Defence.
Community groups included Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Ukulele Hooley, Twilight Twirlers, Dún Laoghaire Tidy Towns and local sports clubs.
Organisers said the parade celebrated “local culture, heritage and community”, involving schools, businesses and voluntary groups.
The event was organised by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and the Dún Laoghaire Business Association.
Following the parade, LÉ Samuel Beckett opened for public tours from 1pm to 4pm, attracting large crowds.
