There is no better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than the Boyne Valley. From vibrant town parades to community-led celebrations filled with music, colour and creativity, 17th March, 2026, promises another fantastic day across the region.
Here’s what’s happening for St. Patrick’s Day 2026 in the Boyne Valley.
Drogheda
Drogheda’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is part of the wider Drogheda St. Patrick’s Festival celebrations.
Parade begins at 12pm on West Street.
1:30pm – 3:30pm will be live music at Gig Rig
The 2026 theme has been announced as “Once Upon a Panto”, promising colour, creativity and plenty of theatrical flair.
Expect:
- Spectacular community floats
- Local performers and groups
- A lively town centre atmosphere
Dunboyne
The Dunboyne St. Patrick’s Day Parade is officially confirmed for 2pm on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.
This popular community parade showcases:
- Local schools and sports clubs
- Community organisations
- Music and family-friendly entertainment
Navan – Navan Shamrock Festival
Navan’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations form part of the much-loved Navan Shamrock Festival.
Parade begins at 2pm
Live Music on Grandstand Stage 1:30
Market Stall & Food stalls & Kids Games from 2pm
Free kids Zone from 12:30 in the Community Hall, Trimgate st
One of the best Puppet shows from 1:15 - 3 pm
Free Face Painting
Free Balloon Modelling
Free Arts & Crafts
Oldcastle
Oldcastle’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Tuesday, March 17th at 12 noon.
Event highlights include:
- Parade assembly at 11am at the Show Hall
- Cash prizes
- Free entry with registration on the day
- Plenty of traditional music
- Bouncy castles and family fun
A fantastic community celebration in the north of the county.
Trim
Trim St Patricks Day Parade will take place from 3.30pm from the Ring Road and will go up Patrick Street, onto Emmet Street, Market Street and finishing at Castle Street.
There will be performances on theme with K-Pop’s Demon Hunters at the bandstand at Market Street, Trim from 3pm.
Athboy
Parade begins at 12:30pm on Athboy Main Street!
Theme: Heroes and Legends
There is a prize of €300 to the best theme float!
Kells
The parade is set to start at 3pm on Tuesday, March 17, and parade-goers are advised to arrive early to ensure a timely start.
Soft streams of bubbles will greet parade-goers along Carrick Street this St Patrick’s Day, as Kells hosts its fourth inclusive sensory section to make the festivities accessible to everyone.
Participants are encouraged to blow bubbles instead of using loud horns, whistles, or amplified music.
A quiet green space has been designated nearby for anyone who may need a break from the bustle.
Walking participants are being asked to gather at the Fairgreen area, while vehicles should assemble along Cavan Road, where clear signage and stewards will be on hand to guide the day.
Ratoath
The parade will run from 12pm to 2pm on Tuesday March 17th.
The gathering point for floats and walking groups is at the Corballis Shopping Centre. Please be at the designated point for 11am ready for a 12pm start.
Please note there is no parking at or near the gathering point.
Slane
Where St Patrick lit the pascal fire bringing Christianity to Ireland. This is always a special day for the beautiful village of Slane.
The parade will start at 3.30pm from St Patrick’s National school and make its way down through the village. There will be free goodies for all children plus lots of new surprises in store.
Ballivor
Ballivor will host its 4th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17th at 12:30pm, Ballivor Main Street.
Two competitive categories will run:
- Best Topic of the Year 2026
- Best Entrant of the Parade 2026
From historic towns and lively market centres to small villages with big community spirit, the Boyne Valley offers something for everyone this St. Patrick’s Day.
Mark Tuesday, 17 March 2026 in your calendar and plan your visit early. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or simply soaking up the atmosphere, you’ll find music, colour and community pride across the region.
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