Fun for all at Omagh St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!

Large crowds turned out for the annual St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Omagh town centre on Monday 17 March, where residents and visitors of all ages enjoyed an afternoon of entertainment, tradition, and family fun. The event was delivered by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and sponsored by Arbour, Radius, Apex, and Alpha Housing Associations, and was a lively celebration of music, dance, culture, and community spirit.

Entertainment included a fantastic set from Tyrone Trad group ‘Tis Not Easy’ at Omagh Courthouse with spirited folk and traditional melodies. DJ Stevie King from Radio Star Country kept the energy high throughout the day, while the much-loved St. Eugene’s Brass & Reed Band created a welcoming atmosphere outside Danske Bank.

The highlight of the day was the St. Patrick’s Day Carnival Parade, which captivated crowds as it wound its way through the town. Marching bands, including the Barr Jubilee and Cloughfin Pipe Band, Cookstown Samba Band, and musicians from Dun Uladh and Dromore and Fintona Comhaltas branches filled the streets with sound and energy.

Local businesses and community groups added flair to the parade with creative floats and costumes from Lewsley School of Irish Dance, Glendale Limousines, Pat Kirk Ltd, and Glenpark Estate, brought creativity and flair to the parade with vibrant floats and costumes.

Sponsored by Arbour, Radius, Apex, and Alpha through the ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme, the Streetwise Circus Ltd and Artsekta Ltd, worked closely with Hospital Road, Strathroy, and CKS Community and Youth Organisations to create stunning displays. Community groups like the Hungarian Saturday School, Shop Mobility, and Together with Solace added to the rich diversity of the event.

The parade also featured other groups such as Little Friends Playgroup – who are celebrating 50 years in 2025, the Viking aka Paddy Montague, Hazel Wand Theatre School, The Ulster Project, and local sporting groups Omagh Accies Rugby Football Club and Tyrone Camogs.

Following the parade, the celebrations continued with Ceili on the Cobbles, where Pluck Savage had everyone on their feet for traditional dances like The Siege of Ennis and The Walls of Limerick. The market stalls at Old Market Place were bustling with activity, offering visitors a variety of crafts, food, and unique keepsakes.

Braver attendees made their way to Jurassic Ark, where they had the chance to encounter live snakes and reptiles, a fiiting nod to the ‘Snakes Alive ’25’ theme.

The Strule Arts Centre also hosted performances from Omagh Set Dancers, Newtownstewart Highland Dancers, Sing together, Traditional Irish Choir, and Drumragh Ukulele Group, along with arts and crafts sessions. The Bulgarian Association NI’s exhibition, “Northern Ireland Through Our Eyes,” added a touch of international culture to the festival.

Commenting on the enjoyable day, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Counicllor John McClaughry said,

“I was so pleased to see so many people out on the streets of Omagh enjoying all the entertainment and celebrations for St Patrick’s Day. The range of free events available to residents and visitors created an inclusive and memorable celebration of culture, talent, and community spirit. Our thanks go to the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for their support in making this event such a success. Thanks also to the South West College for the use of their facilities and to their staff who helped with organising the parade.
The Council is committed to providing the best quality experience for everyone who lives and visits our District, and having enjoyable events like this are important for showcasing local talent, strengthening community ties and encouraging people to come together and enjoy the best that the Fermanagh and Omagh District area has to offer.”

On behalf of the “Housing for All” Omagh Advisory group, Joanne Coyle of Arbour Housing added,

“Arbour, Apex, Alpha, and Radius are thrilled to have supported this year’s festival. The event reflected our commitment to strengthening community ties and promoting inclusivity through shared cultural experiences. It’s fantastic to see the positive impact these events have on bringing people together.”

Omagh St. Patrick’s Day 2025 was a true celebration of community and culture. The celebrations continued into the evening as Omagh’s hospitality catered for families, locals, and visitors alike, showcasing the best of local food, music and entertainment.

-ENDS-