The rain started about half an hour before the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Drogheda began, but it was not enough to dampen the spirits of either the participants or the thousands of people lining the route to cheer them on.

The parade was certainly the most colourful in living memory thanks to the hard work of the organiising committee as well as artists, craft workers and children in schools throughout Drogheda.

There were all manner of wonderful characters on parade - Kieran Gallagher and his cronies in the Absurdist Pipe Band were as mad and as colourful as ever, Frank Godfrey, with all the dignity that befits a former Mayor of Drogheda was dressed in a white jacket with bright yelloe trousers, a green wig and a leprechaun hat. Talk about a style guru!

It was great also to see so many people from different countries taking part in this most Irish of events. Diversity is alive and well in Dogheda despite the racist rantings of certain distasteful groups on social media of late.

Perhaps the biggest cheer of the day was for the group of Ukrainian people who took part in the parade. People all along the route were reaching out to shake their hands.

Just over a year since the invasion and destruction of their country by the war criminal Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, the refugees from Ukraine have proved how admirable and resilient they are and we Irish have taken them to our hearts. 

The Principal of Aston Village Educate Together National School, Dermot McCullen, dressed as St. Patrick, just like he did last year. 

Sennan Mitchell, Killian Mitchell, Seamie Roddy and Finn MItchell waiting for the parade.

Young hockey players enjoying the craic at the parade.

Another St. Patrick! This time marching with The ABACAS school.

A big smile from Eoghan Dolan enjoying the parade. Love your hat Eoghan!

Arthur Murphy and his dog Diva were a big hit at the parade.

The Kidcast kids wewre brilliant as ever.

Don't know what I did or said but this green monster seemed quite annoyed!

Yet another St. Patrick! The Garda was not fooled though, he knew it was Bridie Maxwell.

The salmon of Knowledge makes its way down West Street pushed by members of Drogheda Spcial Olympics Club.

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