Croi na hÉireann Festival programme of events continue in Athlone
The Croí na hÉireann Festival continues with a family-focused programme of events culminating on Monday, March 17, with the hosting of the showpiece event, the St Patrick's Day parade.
A plethora of events are certain to attract vast numbers to Athlone from the wider Midlands community as the five day Festival continues, the River Shannon being a focal point on Saturday, March 15, as water-based activities take centre stage. Athlone Boat Club Jr15 and Jr18 boys and girls will host showcase races and these will be followed by a safety demonstration featuring Athlone Sub Aqua, RNLI, Athlone Water Safety Awareness and Athlone Defibrillation Group.
The Feile na Sionainne and Comhaltas musicians will perform in Athlone Towncentre from 4pm-6pm, Mac Fleetwood completing Saturday's proceedings with a live performance at The Venue in the heart of the town.
On Sunday, March 16, a family 5km run will start from the Regional Sports Centre at 10am (registration from 9.30am), while the Dean Crowe Theatre will host a free multicultural event celebrating culture, music and dance in the afternoon. Renowned Athlone A Cappella will perform in Athlone Towncentre at 3pm, while Blue Moose will perform a live set at The Venue later.
Ballinahown NS's Big Breakfast starts proceedings on the final day of the festival. Ballinahown Community Hall is certain to be full of national feast day spirit with 'a full Irish' the order of the morning.
Art enthusiasts can enjoy the 'Connections Art Exhibition' at the Luan Gallery over the course of the festival.
The grand parade will close thefestival on Monday, March 17. Starting from Connaught Street at 12.30pm, the parade, featuring vibrant floats, performers and complete with community spirit, will travel through the core of the town before finishing at Golden Island. A sensory friendly section will feature en route at John Broderick Street when participants will reduce noise, sirens and flashing lights for a more comfortable parade experience as it reaches its conclusion.