Community Relations Unit OFMDFM

FESTIVAL NEWS - 13 February 2009

St Patrick Launches Downpatrick Festival!

The St Patrick’s Festival in Downpatrick draws thousands to the town every year, making it one of the largest celebrations in the country.

This year’s festival, which boasts a spectacular nine-day programme bursting with events and activities running from Monday 9 March to Tuesday 17 March 2009, was launched this week by Down District Council’s Chairperson, Councillor Colin McGrath, joined by Councillor Michael Coogan, Chairman of Cultural and Economic Development, a beautiful Irish Coleen and Downpatrick’s very own St Patrick, Neil Cusack.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor McGrath stated ‘Events programmed for this year’s St Patrick’s Festival will appeal to all ages and tastes, from intriguing glimpses into the patron saint’s life and legacy, to fun filled activities that will keep the whole family entertained’.

The festival will offer many opportunities to learn more about the history of St Patrick, with events such as A Day Exploring The World Of St Patrick, Celebrating St Patrick Exhibition, Stories of St Patrick told in Irish and a historical coach tour uncovering The Life and Times of St Patrick.

There are also various activities planned for those who enjoy the great outdoors, including a St Patrick Themed Walk of the Hill of Down, and the popular St Patrick’s Day Walk which explores the breathtaking County Down countryside.

Musical highlights of the festival include the award winning Altan Live in Concert, and for those looking for an alternative St Patrick’s experience, Alt Pat – All Ages Rock Gig is an event not to be missed!

St Patrick’s Day is packed full of fun activities for the whole family with traditional craft demonstrations, live music, children’s entertainment, dancing, circus acts and treasure hunts to name but a few. There will also be a wealth of entertainment on the Festival Stage providing an exhilarating lead up to the centre-piece of the festival, the famous St Patrick’s Day Cross-Community Carnival Parade which will this year embrace the theme of ‘The Sun, the Moon and the Stars’.

For further information or to request your free festival programme, call the Festival Office on 028 4461 2233, or view full event listings online by visiting www.st-patricksdayfestival.com.

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