St Patrick’s Day Galway 2026: Everything you need to know about the ‘Legends and Rising Stars’ city parade
A tribute to the legend himself this St Patrick’s Day in Galway, as the parade theme, ‘Legends and Rising Stars’, celebrates the heroes, artists, cultural icons and history-makers who make the city so unique and vibrant.
Thousands of participants will showcase the vibrancy of the communities that make up the city through performance, music and dance.
The parade on Tuesday, March 17 is one of many events taking place across the city during a four-day celebration. Live music in Eyre Square, St Patrick’s céilís and more will take place throughout the weekend.
Here is everything you need to know about the Galway City parade hosted by Galway City Council.
The procession will begin at University of Galway at 11am, continue down University Road, over the Salmon Weir Bridge and head towards Eyre Square via Eglinton Street. It will then pass the Galway City Council building before concluding on Prospect Hill.
The route remains the same as in previous parades, making it one marchers will know well.
An Garda Síochána will have roads closed to facilitate the parade between 11am and 2pm on March 17.
Gardaí are advising people to arrive in Galway early to avoid traffic congestion and allow time to find suitable parking.
The roads that will be closed to traffic are: from University Road, Canal Road Upper, Gaol Road, Salmon Weir Bridge, St. Vincent’s Avenue, Francis Street, Eglinton Street, Woodquay, Headford Road, Dyke Road up to Black Box car park entrance, Saint Brendan’s Avenue, Eyre Street, Bothar Irwin, Bothar na mBan, Williamsgate Street, Eyre Square North, Eyre Square East, Merchants Road onto Eyre Square South, Newtownsmith, Mary Street, O’Brien’s Bridge, Lombard Street, Bowling Green, Market Street, Abbeygate Street.
This year's Grand Marshal is yet to be announced, however, former President of Ireland and Galway native, Michael D Higgins will sit as the 2026 St Patrick’s Day Parade guest of honour.
A long-time advocate for the arts and culture in Galway, the former president, along with his wife Sabina Higgins, represents an integral part of the city’s history.
In partnership with AsIAm, Ireland’s autism charity, the access team at Galway City Council has established a sensory friendly viewing space at Mercy Primary School on St Francis St.
Suited to provide children and families with a quieter, private, and predictable viewing experience with designated toilets, the parade will be turn down Eglinton Street right next to the school.
Places in the Relaxed Parade Space are limited, and those wishing to attend are asked to register in advance by emailing Events@GalwayCity.ie.