St Patrick's Day in Inishowen - what's happening and where

Large crowds are expected to attend the Buncrana and Moville St Patrick's Day parades.

Thousands of people are expected to descend on the towns of Buncrana and Moville, where there will be a host of entertainment to celebrate the day.

2016 sees the 26th St Patrick’s Day parade in Moville, one of the biggest events in the town’s calendar.

Marching bands will be in attendance from Derry, Tyrone and Donegal and there will be live music in the Square from 2pm. All floats will assemble on the Glencrow Road from around 1pm onwards ready to set off as the parade begins at 2.30pm sharp.

A ‘Lucky Shamrock’ flag day always takes place on St Patrick’s Day and everyone can show their support by wearing their Lucky Shamrock. It automatically enters you into a draw and the winner will be picked at the end of the parade.

As always, the St Patrick’s Day celebrations are kicked off in Moville the night before with a traditional music night and this year it is the turn of the Corner Bar to host the musicians. All trad musicians are welcome to the session and singers will be made very welcome too. This should start about 10pm on Wednesday night.

The Buncrana St Patrick’s Day parade begins at 3pm. This year, the first 5,000 people on the main street will receive their very own flag to wave and bring even more colour to the proceedings.

The parade will also feature five bands and there has been a huge response from businesses, schools and local groups, who will all take part in the parade on the day. Floats should assemble at the Shore Front from 2.30pm.

A host of Disney characters are also set to visit Buncrana for the celebrations and there will be prizes for the best floats.

All those attending either parade are advised to arrive in the town early. If you’re thinking of maybe taking part in the parades then you will be made very welcome. There is no registration or entry fee. Traffic controls and diversions will be in operation and Gardai and stewards will be on hand to help.

Hopefully the weather will be kind on the day too. Met Eireann is forecasting a dry and bright day with spells of sunshine.