Athy’s Paddy’s parade sees record numbers
Castlemitchell GFC wing back looking a little hairy at the St Patrick's Day parade in Athy Photos: Aisling Hyland
THIS year’s St Patrick’s Day in Athy saw its biggest ever crowd of 7,000 people.
Young and old gathered on the town’s streets on Tuesday, 17 March to celebrate the national holiday, championed by countries across the world.
Locals wore Patrick's Day garb, wrapped up in green, white and orange, enjoying the fun atmosphere in the town.
Strong winds threatened to ruin the day, but like other recent town events, the weather seemed to clear just in time for the festivities. Divine intervention, some might say.
The parade began at 3pm, with some 42 floats making its way down the street. Clubs and community groups showed up in large numbers to represent a great selection of community initiatives, including the likes of Athy GFC, Athy Gospel Choir, Athy Sing and Sign, the Women’s Shed, and Athy’s energetic Fitsticks group, among many others.
This year’s grand marshal was none other than Athy legend, Frank Taaffe, who arrived in style in a red BMW, before being welcomed on stage by Cathaoirleach Ivan Keatley.
The parade also included Ireland’s biggest robot, and appearances by characters such as Mickey Mouse.
Music and entertainment was provided at the bandstand before the commencement of the parade from 2pm for the growing crowd.
As always, the town was delighted with the appearance and support of An Garda Síochána, the Civil Defence, Kildare Fire Service and the Order of Malta on the day.
