Green geansaís ready for action?

St. Paddy’s Day is looming, and we are fully ready for the first big outdoorsy outing of 2026, whatever the weather might hold.

Grand Marshals for the parade this year are Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, who are celebrating their 50th anniversary. It’s a fitting honour for an organisation that has spent five decades transforming lives across Ireland by providing guide dogs and assistance dogs to those who need them most.

The theme of this year’s parade is Marsh, Myth and Magic and groups joining the fun include Mammies for Trans Rights, who attend big events so trans kids, young adults and adults alike feel that they are accepted and loved, Dolphin Swim Club, founded in Mayfield over 100 years ago, and the Rebel Wheelers, who will be carrying the Senior Basketball National Cup Champions Trophy (its their seventh year in a row winning), to name but a few.

The Main Event: Parade Time!

• When: Tuesday, March 17th, 1pm sharp. If you have kids in tow, get there 30 minutes early to find a decent viewing point.
• Where: The tried-and-true route, from South Mall to Merchants Quay. You know the drill.
• What: Expect a glorious explosion of over 3,000 participants, art installations from Cork Community Artlink and Spraoi, as well as floats and marching bands from near and far.

A host of other events for revellers, families and visitors of all ages are taking places across the city throughout the weekend and you can check those out here.

Where can I find a loo in Cork City?

It’s good to have an action plan in place if you’re caught short, especially if you’re in town with the kiddos. There are public toilets in Merchant’s Quay Shopping Centre (upstairs) and the Cornmarket Street Shopping Centre (downstairs – 20c).

There’s also loos in the Paul Street Shopping Centre and you’ll also need 20c for the coin operated door there.

Accessible area

The organisers have provided an Accessible Area for parade viewers who require these facilities- wheelchair users, elderly/ infirm, autistic and neurodiverse people who need more space around them. This space outside Dunnes Stores does not require registration but is restricted to one accompanying support person.

ISL services will be provided at the Grandstand, which this year is situated near the Tourist Information Office on St. Patrick’s Street. Cork’s 96FM and C103 Presenters Simon Murdoch and Izzy Showbizzy will MC the Cork St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Photo: Darragh Kane