Belfast is gearing up for a spectacular St Patrick’s Day parade and concert.
Strictly Come Dancing finalist and member of smash hit boy band Blue, Simon Webbe, will be the concert’s headline act at Custom House Square on Tuesday, March 17. And the story of Ireland’s Patron Saint will come to life on the streets of Belfast at this year’s fantastic high energy carnival parade created by BEAT Carnival, taking a traditional look at the story of St Patrick.
The parade will set off from City Hall at noon and make its way to Custom House Square where the free concert will run between 1pm and 3pm. A giant puppet of St Patrick will chase model snakes along the route as it makes its way to the concert venue. There will be colourful performances from the many musicians and pipe bands on show, eye-catching floats, carnival dancers and performers, as well as many more festival treats.
Lord Mayor Nichola Mallon will have her own Best of Belfast section in the parade. Some of Belfast’s most decorated sports men and women, including local volunteering heroes, will be on board to join in with the day’s festivities.
The Lord Mayor said: “This year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations look set to be bigger and better than ever and I can’t wait to enjoy the colour and spectacle on show through the streets of Belfast.
Our annual St Patrick’s day festival is a great way to promote the wonderful culture and creativity that exists in our city. We have a growing reputation for holding world class events and St Patrick’s day will be no different. There will be something for everyone at this year’s family-friendly festival and I hope as many people as possible come out to enjoy and join in the celebrations.”
There will be energetic displays of dancing from Irish dancing superstars and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists Innova along with Sollus Highland Dancers. Performances from Louis Walsh’s newest boy band, HomeTown, contemporary country music trio, Saffyre, and traditional musicians Beyond the Pale will keep the crowds dancing and entertained throughout the afternoon.
For more information visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/stpatricks
