Laois camogie champions lead the way on St Patrick's Day

Players who took two All-Ireland Championship cups to Laois in 2025 have the honour of being the grand marshals of the Mountrath 'Legend's Galore' St Patrick’s Day Parade.

The Mountrath Festival Committee has confirmed that the Camross Camogie Intermediate team, along with representatives from the Laois Junior Camogie panel, will lead the 2026 parade on Tuesday, March 17, in recognition of their exceptional achievements on the hallowed turf of Croke Park.

“We are delighted to have our parade led by some of the most dedicated and inspiring players in the country,” a Mountrath Festival Committee spokesperson said in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

“It is a proud moment for our community to celebrate the continued growth and success of women’s sport and a huge honour to welcome the All-Ireland winning Camross Camogie team and members of the Laois All-Ireland-winning panel to Mountrath,” said the spokesperson

Camross made history by securing the Intermediate County title as well as Leinster and All-Ireland Club championships, while Laois Camogie enjoyed a remarkable 2025 season, winning both the All-Ireland Premier Junior Camogie Championship and the National League.

“This has been an incredible year for camogie in Laois,” the spokesperson added. “These achievements have inspired young players across the county and underline the importance of supporting and celebrating women in sport at every level.”

St Patrick’s Day Mountrath Celebrations

This year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Mountrath will feature a full morning of live entertainment beginning at 11 am in the Square, including performances from the Lynam School of Irish Dancing, Cosy Community Choir, Brian & Figs and Camross Comhaltas. Children’s amusements and face painting will run throughout the morning.

The parade will commence at 12.30 pm from the GAA field, with well-known MC Johnny Purcell returning to host proceedings.

Traffic and Public Information

The Mountrath Festival Committee have confirmed that traffic management measures will be in place to ensure the safe running of the event. Shannon Street, from Wallace’s to the Square, will be closed from 9 am on St Patrick’s Day, with the GAA field operating a one-way traffic system until after the parade.

Floats and vehicles are required to assemble at St Fintan’s GAA Field by 11.30 am, with walking groups in place by 12 noon ahead of the 12.30 pm start.

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Gardaí will be stationed at key points throughout the town and all participants are asked to adhere to health and safety guidelines. Organisers are also appealing to the public not to park on Shannon Street or in the Square after 6am on St Patrick’s Day to facilitate parade preparations and emergency access.

Prize for Best Float

Under the theme “Legends Galore,” organisers are calling on local clubs, community groups, businesses and individuals to get involved. A €200 cash prize and trophy will be awarded for the best float, with additional prizes for best window display, best group and best business. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Pictured Enjoying the 2025 Mountrath Parade.

“We could not run the parade without the continued support of local businesses, volunteers and stewards,” the spokesperson added. “St Patrick’s Day in Mountrath is a celebration of national pride but equally of local achievement and this year we are honoured to recognise two teams who have brought so much joy and pride to Laois.”

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Anyone interested in entering a float or volunteering can contact the Mountrath Festival Committee through their social media channels.