Sunshine, record participation and community pride mark Longford’s St Patrick’s Day Parade
More than 60 entries in one of the county’s largest parades to date
Press Release: Monday, 23 March 2026
Longford Town’s 2026 St Patrick’s Day Parade has been hailed a fantastic success, with over 60 floats and entries reflecting the remarkable community spirit at the heart of the celebration. Dry weather held long enough for crowds to enjoy a bright, lively afternoon from Connolly Barracks through the Town Centre. This year’s theme, “Amuigh Faoin Spéir – Out in the Open,” inspired a colourful mix of music, performance, creativity and community pride.
Master of Ceremonies Tony Ghee guided the event, while Reverend Nigel Gill and Fr James McKiernan offered the traditional blessing of the shamrock. The Peter Keenan Branch O.N.E. and Longford Pipe Band led the parade, followed by Grand Marshal Michael Keenan, Chairperson of Longford Tidy Towns. Spectators warmly welcomed him and his many years of community service.
The vibrant mix of cultural groups, schools, clubs, businesses, performers, emergency services and community organisations delivered a lively and diverse event for the thousands in attendance.
The parade also featured enhanced accessibility supports, including a sensory viewing area on Bridge Street and a wheelchair-accessible zone in Centenary Square, both of which were welcomed by families and community members.
A highlight of the day was the beautifully performed national anthem by Amie Dolan.
Afterwards, the parade organisers Longford Municipal District and Longford Local Enterprise Office presented the prizes for the best entries in this year’s parade.
Winners on the day were as follows:
- Longford Chamber of Commerce Best Overall Entry: Longford Pony Club
- Keogh Electrical Best International Entry: Nmasinachi Dance
- Longford Chamber of Commerce Best Commercial Entry: Ecoshedness
- 3D Revamp Best Public Service: Lus na Gréine
- Supermac's Best on Theme award: Latin School Moyne
- The Bernie Crossan Perpetual Trophy/ Cable Com Best Club/Association: Clonguish GAA
- Longford Leader Youth Endeavour Award: Grasshoppers
- Grafter Hair Company Most Entertaining Entry: Lisbrack CCE, Newtownforbes
- Longford Shopping Centre Best Community Entry: Killoe Men’s Shed
- Hair Square Best New Entry Award: Ballinamuck Foróige Juniors
- Mulleady's Waste Management Best Environmental Award: Longford Tidy Towns
- Glennon Brothers Best School Entry: St Michael’s NS
- Hugh Shannon Memorial Cup for Outstanding Service: Longford Scuba Divers
- PVs Most Innovative Entry: Longford Pony Club
- Spirit Clothing “Spirit of St Patrick’s Day” award: Longford Athletics Club
Leas Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Niall Gannon said, “This parade showed the very best of Longford. The colour, the fun and the sense of togetherness were clear from start to finish. I want to thank every group, volunteer and family who took part or came out to support the day.”
Deputy Chief Executive of Longford County Council, John Brannigan said, “The commitment of our community is what makes this parade so special. The range of participants and the effort behind every entry made this a strong, vibrant event. I’m grateful to everyone who helped bring the parade to life once particularly the Local Enterprise Office in Longford County Council.”
Special thanks are extended to Lisa Brady and Donna Bartley who assisted in the organising of the parade, as well the Vintage Club, LWETB, Hope Church, Barry Express, Treal Nurseries, Eoin Mc Ginnity, Mary Fenelon and members of the Longford Volunteer Centre and other volunteers from the Community and Longford County Council who all contributed to making the parade a success. A sincere thank you goes to this year's sponsors: North Midlands Credit Union, Spirit Clothing, Longford Vintners, Flynn & Lynch, Hanlon's Applegreen Gala, Neil Murray and Clarke's Bar.
The 2026 St Patrick’s Day Parade was funded by Longford Municipal District and organised by the Local Enterprise Office on behalf of Longford County Council.
