St Patrick leading the Colmcille Pipe Band along Strand Road.
Derry city centre was transformed into a sea of green this afternoon as thousands packed the streets for the annual St Patrick’s Day parade.
Young cousins Ryan and Shay enjoying the parade.
The young and not-so-young were among the crowds – ten deep in places – who donned “40 shades of green” along the parade route from Queen’s Quay car park through the city centre and back.
Heavy rain showers did not dampen the spirits of the 600 plus participants ranging from dragons, zumba dancers, magical characters and, of course, St Patrick who celebrated the Spring Carnival’s theme of “Music Myth and Magic.”
The parade was the highlight of three days of festivities organised by Derry City Council during which music lovers featuring top Irish traditional musicians took to three outdoor stages at Waterloo Place, the Craft Village and New Market Street.
Among those who appeared were the critically claimed Manrán, John McSherry and Donal O’ Connor (At First Light).
Jack Warnock and Conor O’Kane aka Teknopeasant were among the international musicians who joined in the celebrations
Some of the brightest young talents on the trad scene, who took part in last summer’s Fleadh, returned to once again perform on the city’s streets.
Meanwhile, live music is being provided at An Cultúrlann from until 5,oopm this evening.
And the party is set to go on as the city’s pubs and clubs are set to keep the party going into the “wee small hours.”
“FInn McCool’s Baby” being wheeled along during the parade.
- “FInn McCool’s “baby” being wheeled along during the parade.
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