FINAL preparations are underway in Strabane as the town gears up for a St Patrick’s Festival celebration to remember next weekend, with thousands expected to turn out for the big event.
The St Patrick’s Day Festival, which is delivered with support from Derry City and Strabane District Council, is one of the major showcase events for the area, and is a huge community effort involving hundreds of local participants.
With tourism a strategic priority for the area, the promotion of local festivals and events is high on the agenda for local Council and its partners.
The Festival is this year once again supported by the Strabane BID initiative, which brings together local businesses with the shared goal of building and growing the local economy and the positive profile of the town.
Speaking ahead of the Festival, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor John Boyle, encouraged everyone to come out and enjoy the festivities.
“The programme for St Patrick’s Day in Strabane this year is fantastic with plenty for all the family to enjoy.
“I want to acknowledge the support of the business community who have once again stepped up and given their support for this important cultural and community focused event.
“The BID Initiative offers a fantastic platform for the business community to join together and take a cohesive approach to growing tourism and trade for the area.”
Speaking on behalf of the BID board, Kieran Murphy, proprietor of Murphys on the Green, praised the efforts of all involved in planning the carnival.
“The BID in Strabane are once again extremely proud to support the St Patricks Day Festival.
“Strabane is well recognised as a town of cultural diversity and talent and the St Patricks Day Festival is just one of the many great festivals throughout the year.
“We want to showcase what a great town Strabane is to live in, do business and where businesses can thrive and families and visitors alike can enjoy our unique family friendly events.
“We are very happy to give our continued support to such an asset to the town and we encourage all businesses to enter into the festive spirit to make the day a success.”
The new festival format offers a wide range of free activities for families, taking place in and around the town centre, kicking off with the traditional carnival parade.
The events celebrate a multitude of cultures and traditions with the main theme of the festival parade focusing on one of Ireland’s favourite fables – the tale of Tír na nÓg – the mythical land of everlasting youth and joy.
Activities include arts and crafts, face painting, balloon modelling, story-telling, dance and even a festive farm, while Castle Street will be transformed into a multi-cultural hub celebrating traditions and entertainment from around the world.
Find out more at www.derrystrabane.com/stpatricksdaystrabane
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