Fermanagh's St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Fun Day returns to Enniskillen in just over three weeks on Sunday, March 17, with this year's theme focusing on 'Folklore'.

As usual, the craic starts at the Broadmeadow with a free family fun day and a host of live entertainment acts, starting at 1.30pm, MCd by the effervescent DJ Bob.

Enjoy a range of free activities, from rugby skills to water-based fun, including some great competition prizes to look out for thanks to Erne Water Taxi.

The Project St. Patrick volunteer committee which organises the St. Patrick’s Day event in Enniskillen, which is supported by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, are thrilled to have also attracted additional support from local businesses this year.

A spokesperson for Project St. Patrick said: “As a small committee, we are thrilled to have attracted additional support from industry, including Mannok, who’ll be cutting down queue times by sponsoring loads more face-painters this year.

"The hugely popular chocolate fountains and candy floss are supplied courtesy of Encirc, and there's loads more stuff we’re keeping under wraps, thanks to Terex and Briggs Equipment & Balloo Hire. 

“We’re delighted that our hydrofoiling leprechauns are back - not to mention our unique flotilla event on St. Patrick’s eve, with live entertainment and delicious lakeside catering, making celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland’s only island town a truly unique experience.

"There are more watery details to be revealed closer to the time, due to the continuing support of Lough Erne Landscape Partnership.

"As ever, there are many other fringe events happening, such as Folklore Story Telling Sessions on Castle Island, which are bound to keep the kids enthralled."

Discussing what can be expected before the parade, a spokesperson said: "For those wishing to grab top viewing spots, there will be lots going on, including pre-parade at the Diamond in Enniskillen town centre from 1.30pm, including traditional dancers featuring a much anticipated ‘Mash Up’, followed by a no doubt crowd-pleasing performance by the Hand Me Downs at 2.15pm, funded by those other diamonds, at Mercers!

"A massive welcome back to Jets Cheerleading. We look forward to the team getting the crowds going as only they can, by leaving just in advance of the main parade.

"For those who would prefer a less boisterous viewing platform, Fr. Raymond Donnelly is providing again this year a ‘quiet space’ at St. Michael’s Parish Centre – booking essential.

"You can always take time out too, to view the entries to our children’s art competition on display throughout the town."

Supported by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Enniskillen BID and local businesses both big and small, this year’s spectacular parade will start at 3.30pm and will be led out by 2024 Grand Marshalls, Fermanagh Brightstarz.

The parade features a range of traditional and carnival-style floats with a Folklore theme, acrobatics, live music as well as opportunities to meet Finn McCool’s Irish Wolfhounds.

Helping launch the celebration, the Council Chair, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly (SF) said: “I am pleased the Council has sponsored two St. Patrick’s Day festivals, in both Enniskillen and Omagh.

"The Council is committed to providing the best quality experience for everyone who lives in and visits our district, especially on global days of celebration like St. Patrick’s Day."

Project St. Patrick Chairperson Feargal Shannon added: "Last year was off the charts amazing, and that was down to the crowds who came out even in the rain.

"It was their enthusiasm that created the buzz and atmosphere, and made it feel like the sun was shining!

"We’ve been working hard all year to build on our event, so we encourage everyone to not only come out again, but to bring someone who might never have been. There really is something for everyone.”