Numerous parades planned across Offaly

Mountbolus, Kilcormac, Banagher, and Rhode are all preparing to put on fantastic family fun days on March 17 to mark the national holiday.

The Kilcormac St Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on March 17 from 3.30pm.

Participants will assemble at the GAA field, and all floats should be in place by 3.15pm. There will be a €500 prize for first place, as well as a €200 runner up prize. Traffic diversions will be in place for the duration of the parade. In Rhode, the parade will start at 10am from the Rhode power station entrance. There will be a prize on the day for the best float. All households along the Route are encouraged to decorate their homes with bunting and flags. Offaly GAA legend Eugene Mulligan will be grand marshal on the day.

In Banagher, the St Patrick's Day parade has a starting time of 3pm on Monday, March 17.

Numerous community groups and organisations from Banagher and neighbouring towns are set to participate in the parade, with road closures in place from 2.30pm to 4.30pm in order to accommodate it.

"We are promising those participating and those in attendance a great day of entertainment. There will be live music prior to and after the parade from Rise and Shine, who will keep the national feast day mood upbeat with their tunes," Committee chairperson, Tony Cormican stated.

The chairperson complimented the annual vintage display which has become an integral part of the Banagher St Patrick's Day parade.

In Mountbolus, the St Patrick's Day parade will take place on Monday, March 17. Assembly for the parade will start at 10am outside Newtons on the hill, with the main event kicking off from 11am.

For spectators there will be hot refreshments served in Killoughey Community Centre, and hot dinners and refreshments served in The Beehive.