Wrap up warm and bring a raincoat and a brolly.

Storm Claudia will not delay the official start of Christmas in Cork tonight, Friday, November 14th.

Cork City Council has confirmed the Corkmas Parade will go ahead tonight despite the Status Yellow weather warning, lighting up the city with music, colour, and festive cheer, marking the official switching on of the city’s Christmas lights.

“Tonight’s Corkmas parade has been in planning for six months.” said a spokesperson.

“Preparing for bad weather is built into the planning of all outdoor events in Ireland. But given the extensive engagement and logistics involved, it is not possible to postpone or reschedule tonight’s event.

“The performers have been booked for months, and many are scheduled to be elsewhere tomorrow and over the coming days. Rain doesn’t bother Santa on Christmas Eve and it won’t bother him tonight either.

“He has advised anyone coming to see him to dress for wet weather, with raincoats, hoods and suitable footwear, but he’s advising against umbrellas on the parade route itself because they might block the view.”

The show must go on 

From 7pm to 8pm, the city’s streets will transform into a sparkling winter wonderland as performers, dancers, and bands join Santa Claus on a magical parade through the heart of the city. Families are invited to come early, soak up the atmosphere, and be ready to help Santa light up Cork for Christmas.

“Tonight marks the start of the festive season on Leeside as Santa will switch the lights on in the city with the help of dancers, floats, performers and much more! He is looking forward to welcoming all into the city to celebrate with him.” a City Council spokesperson announced on Instagram just after 8am this morning.

“As rain is expected, he is asking all to wrap up appropriately and to come in and enjoy the incredible show planned.”

 

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This year, Santa needs a little help to spark the magic. He’s calling on all the boys and girls of Cork to lend their voices. When you see him along the route, be sure to shout, “I BELIEVE!” to help him gather the festive magic he needs to turn on the city’s twinkling lights.

Here’s what you need to know before you go: 

The parade route

7pm: The Corkmas Parade begins on North Main Street where the drummers of SPARK will lead the way, continuing along Washington Street and St. Patrick’s Street. They’ll be joined by the Cork City Fire Brigade, Santa on his sleigh, and dancers from the Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance in dazzling festive costumes.

The city’s own Butter Exchange Band will fill the streets with music, while the imaginative LUXe Street Theatre creators add a touch of wonder. The evening will end on a high note with the Barrack Street Band bringing the parade to a rousing close.

Road closures to note

To ensure everyone’s safety during the celebrations, a number of road closures and traffic diversions will be in place across the city centre on Friday evening. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, follow Garda directions, and allow extra time for travel.

Where’s the best place to park?

The Cork City Park & Ride service will remain open until 10pm, and visitors are encouraged to make use of it to help keep the city centre moving smoothly. See the Travel Information tab for full information on road closures, diversions (including buses) and parking restrictions.

Where are the nearest public loos?

If you need to spend a penny while you wait for the parade, there’s a public loo behind a brown door at the side of the Cork City Library on Grand Parade. It’s 50c by contactless payment.

You’ll find another bathroom in the Cornmarket Centre off Cornmarket Street or Paul Street and there are also public toilets upstairs at the Bus Station in Parnell Place. Dunnes Stores and Brown Thomas on St Patrick’s Street both have toilets for customers.