Each year, the people of Drogheda honour Saint Oliver Plunkett with a solemn and vibrant procession through the town. But this year’s celebration holds special significance, marking 400 years since his birth, 50 years since his canonisation, and 100 years of the Knights of Saint Columbanus in Drogheda.

To commemorate this momentous anniversary, a wide-ranging programme of events is taking place across Louth, Meath, Cavan, and Armagh, involving thousands of pilgrims, students, and local communities.

Among the highlights is an All-Ireland national school art competition, which saw over 1,800 entries from nearly 100 schools. Ten outstanding young artists will be awarded prizes for their creative tributes to the life and legacy of Saint Oliver.

An exhibition of Saint Oliver memorabilia, including rare garments and selected artwork from the competition, opened on Monday 9th June in the Civic Offices, Fair Street, Drogheda. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Camino-style pilgrim walks are taking place in each of the four counties, with walk-and-talk tours offered in Drogheda by local historians.

• 28th–29th June – Oldcastle, Co. Meath, will host a family fun day in Gilson Park (28th) and the annual Mass at Loughcrew (29th at 3pm).
• 4th July – The Plunkett Family Gathering takes place at Loughcrew House and Estate (A82 X4Y1) from 12 noon to 5pm – all are welcome.
• The centrepiece of the anniversary weekend will be in Drogheda on Friday 4th July with walking tours throughout the town.
• On Saturday 5th July  there will be a family day on West Street (12pm–5pm), followed by a concert at 8pm in St. Peter’s Church with the Male Voice Choir and special guests.
• Sunday 6th July – The annual procession departs from Holy Family Church, Ballsgrove (A92 W2PW) at 3pm, proceeding to St. Peter’s Church, West Street for Mass celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin, followed by refreshments in Macey’s Hotel.

These events have been generously supported by Louth and Meath County Councils, Drogheda BIDS, Drogheda Festivals, the Archdiocese of Armagh, and the Knights of Saint Columbanus.

The public are invited to take part in this historic series of celebrations and join us in honouring Ireland’s Saint of Peace and Reconciliation.

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