Fingal County Council Expands St Patrick’s Day Celebrations

Fingal County Council is gearing up for a massive celebration on Ireland’s National Day, with eight St Patrick’s Day parades taking place across the county on Tuesday, 17 March.

The eight local family-friendly parades will bring colour, music and movement to the streets. Expect musicians, dancers, community groups and sports clubs, performers and plenty of personality showcasing who we are as a community.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary said: “It’s fantastic to see eight parades taking place across the county this year as we mark St Patrick’s Day. The level of community involvement from local groups and organisations to volunteers and businesses reflects the pride and spirit that we have for this occasion.

“I wish to invite you all to line the streets, cheer your friends and neighbours on and share this day with each other as we celebrate our community connections, the magic of Irish culture and our deep love of ancient traditions.”

Parades this year will include:

Swords - opening this year’s celebrations at 11am the County Town will host a spectacular parade that captures the heart of Irish tradition and heritage. The route runs from Coláiste Choilm, Dublin Road, along Main Street, turning right at Bridge Street Junction, along North Street and finishing at Swords Castle Town Park.
Blanchardstown - starting at 12pm from the junction of Church Avenue, Mill Road & Mary Street, Main Street, Past Clonsilla Road Junction and finishes at Blanchardstown Garda Station.
Balbriggan - sets off at 12pm from Bremore Castle car park, Drogheda Street, Dublin Street to St. Peter's and Paul Catholic Church.
Malahide - beginning at 2pm, the floats and displays set sail from the Cricket Club, Malahide Road R106 from the junction of Yellow Walls Road, Main Street, The Mall, Coast Road and finishes at the Beach Car Park.
Rush – from 1pm this Community Parade, runs from Lower Main Street, Bawn Road, Kilbush Lane to Chapel Green. See: Rush Community Council.
Lusk – starting at 1:30pm, the Community Parade, runs from R127 Ring Road to Station Road, Main Street, Post Office Road to The Green. See: Lusk Community Council The Route.
Skerries - from 3pm this Community Parade runs from South Strand Street to Strand Street. See: Skerries Chamber of Commerce.
Donabate – An earlier celebration, this community parade will take place on Saturday 14th March 2026 at 1:30pm. Starting from Ballisk Roundabout and concluding at St Patricks Church and Parish Hall on Main Street (at approximately 2:15pm)., Local festival activities will run until 4.30pm.

Local groups, organisations and businesses can still take part in this year’s parade by registering for free at www.fingalparades.com by Sunday, 1 March.

This year, for some friendly competition and to help spark extra creativity, we are introducing a Best Dressed Group prize at the Blanchardstown, Balbriggan, Swords and Malahide parades. That will mean everyone taking part has a chance of winning €1,000 for first place, €500 for second and third place. So, get those thinking caps on and show us what you got!

Residents and visitors are encouraged to join the celebrations, support local events and experience the atmosphere that makes Fingal a special place to mark this holiday.

In the run up to the big day, our local libraries, community spaces and art centres are hosting an exciting lineup of St. Patrick’s week activities. You’ll find arts and crafts workshops, Ceol le Chéile, quizzes, and more, perfect for all ages. Find out more: https://www.fingal.ie/libraries-events

Residents are advised to check what road closures will be in place surrounding parade routes. Additionally, local restrictions may be enforced from Monday, March 16th to help facilitate route and viewing platform setup. Alternative routes, times, and diversions for each location will be available to view: https://www.fingal.ie/events/st-patricks-day-parades