Festival Schedule, Partners, and Programming
Date: 17th of March 2026
Location: Charlestown Bridge, Town Centre, Clara, Co Offaly
About: The Clara St. Patrick’s day Parade in County Offaly celebrated its 50 golden jubilee on March 17th, 2026 and featured around 80 floats. The festivities began with a live morning concert in the square, featuring the James Kinsella Céilí Band and notable performers before the grand parade. The Grand Marshall of the Clara Parade was led by Ferbane native Paddy Claffey, who-at 104 years old – served as Grand Marshall and was celebrated as Ireland’s oldest man. He officially cut the ribbon alongside legendary referee Carthage Buckley. The long-time organizer Bertie McMahon celebrated his 50th year of organizing the local festivities, having started his journey with the event in 1976. Some special mentions are: The Clara Ladies Gaelic Football Club was specially honoured at the event, with members encouraged to march in their black, white & pink club colours. The festivities began at 11:30am with a concert in the square, followed by the main parade at 12:30pm.
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