Organisers of this year’s event have really pushed the boat out

 

THERE’S a packed series of events for this St Patrick’s Day in Enniskillen. It’s the sixth year of Project St Patrick’s Festival and Parade and the dedicated group of volunteers organising the festivities have really pushed the boat out this year.

The theme this year, is Mardi Gras, so prepare for a carnival. Also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras is traditionally your last chance to pig out before Lent. However, this year, you’re getting another chance on St Patrick’s Day to do it in style in Enniskillen.

Thursday’s festivities are completely free and start with St Patrick’s Day water activities and a family fun day in the Broadmeadow between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Also taking place at the Lakeland Forum at that time will be a free family fun day with Viking raiders from Ardglass the special guests. There will also be face painting, bouncy castles, singalong Else and other Frozen and Disney characters.

The highlight at the Broadmeadow will be the arrival of St Patrick by curragh to lead the parade itself, followed by this year’s Grand Marshals, members of the Devenish Partnership Forum. That will set off from the Lakeland Forum at 3.30pm and finish up at the Enniskillen Museum at 4.30pm.

Street entertainment begins with a live music performance by Murley Silver Band and Fermanagh Concert Band who will be banging out soundtracks from the movies. 

There are a number of fringe event organised in association with the St Patrick’s festival. Also taking place on St Patrick’s Day is a food Fayre in the Bridge Centre from 11am to 4pm. 

 In Enniskillen, a Food Fayre will take place at The Bridge Centre, Enniskillen, from 11am to 4pm, with pedestrian access via East Bridge Street.  Food products from local producers including Baked in Belfast, Cavanagh Free Range Eggs, Cherry Tree Home Bakery, Erin Grove Preserves, Long Lane Pantry, Lough Erne Cakes, and Tickety-Moo ice cream, will be available on the day to sample and buy. 

Friday will see the Ulster Unionist Hall hosting a Scottish Marching Band Night with the Forth Bridges Accordion Band providing the entertainment, tickets £5/£7 on the night.

Last year the celebrations saw over 15,000 people flood into Enniskillen and with sun forecast it looks like this year is going to be bigger again.

Those attending should note there will be no parking in the Lakeland Forum with limited availability in the immediate locality although there will be parking available at just £1 for five hours in neighbouring car parks.