Clifden is preparing for what promises to be another vibrant and memorable St. Patrick’s Day Parade, with organisers hoping to build on the tremendous success of 2025, which was widely regarded as the largest parade the town had seen in 20 years.
The 2026 parade will officially kick off at 12.30pm, with floats gathering on the Galway Road from 12.00pm.
This year’s parade will be led by special Grand Marshals, James and Conor Canavan, Clifden’s latest musical exports, who recently brought great pride to the town by winning All-Ireland medals at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford.
Organisers are expecting around 20 floats, all of which will be judged from the gig rig by a panel of distinguished guests. With strong St. Patrick’s Day traditions in neighbouring areas such as Roundstone, Letterfrack and Claddaghduff, organisers say there is friendly competition to put on the very best parade possible.
A special welcome will also be extended to Vassar College, New York, whose representatives will take part in the parade. Their attendance marks 40 years of internships with Clifden Community School, a long-standing and valued connection that has enriched the local community over many years.
The parade will also feature the participation of the emergency services, RNLI and FCA, adding to the strong sense of community spirit and local pride on the day.
Musical entertainment will once again be provided by Clifden Comhaltas, who will bring Irish music to the event throughout the day, while proceedings will be compered by Peter Carey Jnr. The parade will also be joined by a marching band from Scoil Mhuire Clifden and a cortege of vehicles from the Connemara Classic & Vintage Club, ensuring plenty of spectacle and variety for all ages.
Following the parade, families are invited to enjoy a kiddies’ disco in Clifden Town Square, adding to the festive atmosphere and making it a full day of celebration in the town.
For those who cannot attend in person, Connemara Community Radio will be broadcasting the event live, allowing listeners near and far to enjoy the celebrations.
Organisers are encouraging the local community, businesses, clubs and groups to come out in force, support the parade, and help make St. Patrick’s Day 2026 in Clifden even bigger and better than last year.
