Londoners get ready for a St. Patrick’s
extravaganza
by Trevor O’Sullivan
Once again planning for the London St. Patrick’s Day festival is
under way.
And the city’s Irish community are being urged to get involved by
submitting a colourful float in what promises to be the biggest and best
parade since its inception six years ago.
Thousands of onlookers are expected to transform the British capital into
a sea of green, white and gold as a blanket of Tricolours will be waived
along the route.
Organisers are planning for a record turnout from a host of community
groups across London and the South-east.
Senior events officer at the London Mayor’s Office Daire Basra
said there will be up to 5,000 participants made up of marching bands
from all over Britain, Ireland and Europe.
She said: “Thousands of people from community groups and Irish dancing
schools are set to take part as well as hundreds of floats and colourful
pageantry.
“This year we are adding extra activities such as film screenings
which will be taking place at Leicester Square.
And once again over 100,000 people will gather in three locations in central
London to celebrate our national day.
“It’s a festival enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds
tasting the very best of Irish food, drink, entertainment, culture and
arts.”
The parade — which leaves Park Lane at noon on March 18 —
occupies the most high-profile parade route passing by Piccadilly Circus,
Lower Regent Street, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall.
After the parade revellers will be entertained in Trafalgar Square by
a free concert with Paul Brady already confirmed as the headline act.
London-based Irishman Tommy Ryan said: “I go to the parade every
year and it’s definitely the highlight of my yearly calendar. The
mood is so atmospheric and everyone always has a great laugh.”
Once again the fountains in the square will be turned green to commemorate
the day.
Other attractions include an Irish culture village with a Ceili Mor, an
interactive Irish-themed children’s area and an Irish film screening.
n The parade takes place on Sunday, March 18 and leaves from Hyde Park
Corner.
Closing date for entry forms is Monday, January 22, 2007. Forms can be
requested from St. Patrick’s Day Parade, PP25, 2nd Floor, City Hall,
The Queenswalk, London, SE1 2AA or via e-mail from stpatricks.day@london.gov.uk
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