KILLARNEY IN PARTY MODE
IT was day of celebration in Killarney on Saturday as the town used this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade to mark 60 years of National Tidy Towns Awards.
It only seemed fitting to have Yvonne Quill, Chairperson of ‘Killarney Looking Good’, as this years Grand Marshal for the parade.
The theme was ‘Killarney, You’re Looking Good’, and in the spirit of this theme, observers were treated to some of the most creative and elaborate costumes to make an appearance at the parade ever.
Marchers were dressed up as zombies, sesame street characters and flowers, to name a few example.
The parade was led by Yvonne Quill, Cathaoirleach Killarney Muncipal Area Cllr Niall Kelleher and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce President Paul O’Neill.
Many of the surrounding clubs and societies marched on the day, one being the famous Dr Crokes GAA Club.
Glenflesk’s GAA club dressed as nuns and women soldiers, and even Fr Jack and Fr Ted made an appearance in the parade.
Ian O’Connell played a starring role in this year’s parade also. The spa native travelled down from Dublin after starting rehab due to a bike accident a few months ago.
The young man was all smiles and enjoyed the day thoroughly. Paul O’Neill told The Kerryman: “It was a great day. The parade started at two, but we finished just in time to catch Ireland win the Grand Slam.
“After, we had a street party on the main street that kind of turned into a Grand Slam party. It was a great day and we have heard nothing but great things from people about it. There was a real festival atmosphere around the town.”
This year’s parade proved to be one of the best as people from all over came to see it and participate. The weather stayed dry for the parade and even though they were cold, the crowd was excited and happy to be able to stand out and watch the parade. It was truly another successful year for Killarney.