Thousands of people have taken to the streets of Limerick City for the International Band Championships, a staple event in the city for over 50 years as part of St Patrick's weekend festivities.
Marching bands from across Ireland, Europe and the United States make their way to the Treaty City each year for what is the only international band parade and championship of its kind in Ireland.
There is particular interest from bands across the US, where there is a strong marching band culture, particularly in schools and colleges.
Clondalkin Youth Band entertain some of the large crowds gathered in Limerick for the 53rd Band Championships @rtenews pic.twitter.com/OWR7rvrDJy
— Micheal Mac Suibhne (@MicMacSuibh) March 16, 2025
The parade takes the same route as the St Patrick's Day parade, going down through Henry Street to Arthur's Quay Park where there is a musical jamboree to keep the festival atmosphere going.
The champion bands are judged and chosen based on their best musical and most entertaining performance, best uniforms, best local band, best youth band, best international band, a mayor’s prize and a special judges award.
Overall winners of the 53rd Limerick International Band Championship, Doherty High School Colorado Springs. @rtenews pic.twitter.com/hRm6wNq13U
— Micheal Mac Suibhne (@MicMacSuibh) March 16, 2025
The Limerick International Band Championships forms part of a comprehensive St Patrick's festival with a host of street and other events from 15-17 March which include street theatre events for children, folk concerts, performances by the Irish Chamber Orchestra, storytelling and a Céilí Mór on St Patrick's night.
The series of events as well as the band parade has attracted hundreds of visitors with many hotels full for the weekend.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran is marking his first St Patrick's Day festival as directly elected Mayor of the city and county, and has invited all citizens to join with visitors to celebrate Ireland’s rich culture and heritage with a touch of fun and excitement.
The traditional St Patrick's Day parade will travel the same route tomorrow led by double Paralympic medalist Róisín Ní Riain, who is the grand marshal of the parade.
