St Patrick's Day Mardi Gras carnival promised in Laois town

Mountrath is set to be alive with colour, glitz and glam this St Patrick's Day as the Carnival comes to town. 

The theme ‘Carnival’ was chosen by the Mountrath Parade committee to evoke the colourful sites of Rio de Janeiro, Mardi Gras and the fun of carnival days with clowns, ringmaster, top hats and big tents. 

The St Patrick Parade will kick off with live music on the Square, a market featuring local marketers, bouncing castles and amusements for all ages from 11.30 am. The parade will start at 12.00 midday from St Fintan's GAA Field

Chairperson of this years parade, Cllr James Kelly describes his excitement for this year's St Patricks Day Parade in Mountrath. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

“As we all know on St Patricks Day, we first of all celebrate our patron saint and then our Irish culture which runs deep in us all." Last year, Mountrath went Green for our parade, promoting recycling and being eco. 

“This year we wanted to go bigger; and choose the theme of ‘Carnival’. We want to see our small town, full of colour and splendour, with all sorts of glitz, colour and glam. The ideas are endless. Think top hats and big tents, Mardi Gras and Rio de Janeiro.’ Cllr Kelly added.

 The Committee say they e have planned a spectacular parade this year. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

“We have street entertainment, numerous activities, life music and games and activities for all ages. He added. With any parade, participation is key and as Cllr James kelly explained. "We want to make this parade more inclusive and bigger then ever; we've already started contacting all local groups and businesses, we want everyone to take part and make our parade one to remember. 

“What makes our parade stand out each year, is our local groups, businesses and clubs. They are integral to making our parade the much-loved event its become. MORE BELOW PICTURE

"The parade should be seen as a huge opportunity for all businesses, sporting bodies, community and voluntary groups to showcase themselves and our town at its very best. 

‘The committee this year want to help inject some of that child like fun of Carnival days; the big tents, clowns, the fun and the ringmaster; Rio de Janeiro and the colourful costumes and bands, the history and fun of Mardi gras,” a member of the committee added.

Big Laois announcement on Portlaoise St Patrick's Day Parade

So all roads lead to Mountrath on Friday, March 17.