County Clare features a mix of vibrant parades, family activities, cultural experiences, and traditional music, with Ennis hosting the main event and communities across the region adding their unique flair.
- Ennis (11:00 am, pre-parade entertainment from 10:15 am): The county’s flagship parade starts from Áras Contae an Chláir (County Council offices). Pre-parade highlights include performances by the Shannon Gospel Choir at Abbey Street and Comhaltas at Steele’s Terrace. The procession features colorful floats, marching bands, dancers, community groups, and local pride—led by Grand Marshal Mick O’Dea, with a reviewing stand in the Abbey Street carpark area.
- Shannon (2:30 pm): Titled “Wings, Waves and Wonders,” this afternoon parade celebrates the town’s diverse, multicultural community with inclusive floats, performances, and a focus on unity and heritage.
- Kilrush (12:00 pm): A beloved midday event themed “Legends,” featuring creative entries inspired by Irish folklore, myths, and stories—complete with floats, bands, and community spirit in this coastal town.
- Doolin (2:00 pm, gathering from 1:30 pm at Doolin Pier): Starts at the iconic pier, winds through the charming village, and finishes at the Russell Community Centre. A scenic, laid-back parade with local flavor, music, and coastal vibes.
- Ballina-Killaloe (2:30 pm): A special cross-border parade begins in Ballina (Clare), crosses the Killaloe Bridge over the River Shannon, and concludes at the Green in Killaloe (Tipperary). It unites two counties and towns in a symbolic, community-driven celebration.
Early Weekend Celebrations
- Lisdoonvarna (Saturday, 14 March, 12:00 pm): An early parade through the village, followed by family fun from 1:00 pm in the Square—including face painting, a dog show, and other kid-friendly activities in this famous spa town.
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park (Sunday, 15 March, 10:30 am–5:00 pm): The “Shamrocks and Shenanigans” family event immerses visitors in Irish culture with traditional music, Irish dancing performances (at 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, and 3:30 pm), a dancing leprechaun disco, shamrock face painting, meet-and-greets with Saint Patrick parading through the village street, balloon twisters, Finegas the Druid telling fables and legends, and more enchanting characters throughout the historic park.
- Fanore (Sunday, 15 March, 2:00 pm): A beachside parade departing from Fanore Beach, bringing festive energy to this scenic Atlantic coast spot with community participation.
- Doonbeg (Sunday, 15 March, 3:30 pm): A “Legends” themed parade led by the Tulla Pipe Band, traveling from the school up the main street and past the library. It includes vintage car rally elements and floats, blending heritage with fun.
Other Cultural Activities
- Doolin Cave: Special guided tours of Europe’s largest free-hanging stalactite available with discounts from March 17–23 (e.g., 20% off with promo code like “paddy20” around those dates). A unique underground adventure highlighting Clare’s natural wonders during the holiday week.
- Traditional Music: Live sessions in local pubs across Doolin, Ennis, and other towns throughout the long weekend—perfect for enjoying authentic Irish trad tunes, songs, and sessions in cozy, welcoming venues.
These events are community-focused, mostly free (some attractions like Bunratty or cave tours may have entry fees), and celebrate Clare’s rich heritage, landscapes, and spirit. For full details, routes, road closures, participation info, or updates, check Clare County Council (clarecoco.ie), Visit Clare (visitclare.ie), or local Facebook pages.
Tourism Ireland reaches out toe the Irish Diaspora
Saint Patrick’s Day county by county
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
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Saint Patrick’s Day state by state in Australia
New South Wales – Northern Territory – Queensland – Tasmania – Victoria – Western Australia
