Drogheda National Services Day will return on Saturday, 5th September, bringing together emergency services, voluntary organisations, and community groups for a day of demonstrations, displays, and family activities at Merchants Quay, Drogheda, from 12:00 to 16:00.
The annual event gives people an opportunity to meet those working across emergency, healthcare, rescue and community services and to learn more about the work they carry out across Drogheda and the wider region.
Visitors will be able to see specialist vehicles and equipment, speak directly with service personnel and watch live demonstrations throughout the day.
This year’s event was officially launched at Fiddler’s Quay Pier on Monday, 17th August, with representatives from a range of professional and voluntary services attending.
The national National Services Day programme confirms Drogheda as one of eight locations across Ireland hosting an event on 5th September this year.
A chance to meet the people behind the services
Mayor of the Borough District of Drogheda, Cllr Declan Power, said the event gives the community a chance to recognise the people who provide essential services locally.
“National Services Day is an opportunity for us as a community to recognise and thank the many individuals and organisations who work tirelessly on our behalf every single day. From our emergency services and healthcare professionals to voluntary rescue organisations and community groups, their dedication and commitment help make Drogheda a safer and stronger place to live.
“This event showcases their work while providing a fantastic family day out. I would encourage everyone to come along, meet the people who serve our community and enjoy what promises to be a memorable day for all ages.”
Drogheda has hosted National Services Day events since 2023, with previous celebrations bringing Gardaí, the National Ambulance Service, fire services, Coast Guard, RNLI, Civil Defence, the Irish Red Cross and other frontline and voluntary organisations into the town.
Professional and voluntary services working together
This year’s event is being coordinated by Cllr Debbie McCole, who is also a member of the National Ambulance Service.
She said:
“National Services Day is about highlighting the incredible teamwork that exists between the professional and voluntary services that support our communities every day. Having worked within the National Ambulance Service, I know first-hand the dedication shown by those who respond when people need help most.
“We are looking forward to welcoming families from across Drogheda and beyond for a day of demonstrations, displays and community engagement. It is a chance for people to gain a better understanding of the services available to them, meet those who deliver them, and enjoy a wonderful day with family and friends.”
Visitors can expect meet-and-greet opportunities with emergency and community services, rescue and response demonstrations, specialist vehicle displays and information stands.
The event is also intended to give younger visitors an opportunity to learn more about the different organisations they may see working around Drogheda throughout the year.
Street entertainment in Drogheda
Love Drogheda Business Improvement District will coordinate street entertainment as part of the day.
Trevor Connolly said:
“Love Drogheda BIDS is delighted to support National Services Day and help create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The event provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the organisations that do so much for our town while bringing people into the heart of Drogheda for a fun-filled family day.
“We are looking forward to providing entertainment that will add to what promises to be a fantastic community occasion.”
Drogheda Port Company is also supporting the event.
In a statement, the company said:
“We are delighted to once again support National Services Day and recognise the invaluable contribution of our emergency services.
“We are proud to stand alongside those who serve our communities every day and thank them for their dedication and commitment.”
What to expect on the day
Visitors can look forward to:
- meeting members of emergency and community services
- live rescue and response demonstrations
- specialist vehicles and equipment
- information from professional and voluntary organisations
- street entertainment
- family activities
Drogheda Life recently reported on the arrival of two new fire appliances for Drogheda and Dundalk, with Cllr Power saying at the time that he hoped Drogheda’s new appliance would be among the vehicles on display at National Services Day.
National Services Day began as a national initiative to recognise and celebrate those working and volunteering across emergency, security and frontline services.
This year’s events are taking place in Drogheda, Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Wexford, Kilkenny, Naas and Galway.
Event details
Drogheda National Services Day
Date: Saturday, 5th September
Location: Merchants Quay, Drogheda | 12:00 to 16:00
Admission: Free
What to expect: Service displays, live demonstrations, emergency vehicles, street entertainment and family activities
