Check out Sean Molloy’s insightful article about Achill’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in Irish Central published today.

One by one, pipers and drummers shake off the chill and step out in full regalia, drawn by a tradition that has pulsed in this rugged place since 1882.

It is St. Patrick’s Day in Achill—where heritage, music, and community come together in one breathtaking celebration.

The origins of this event can be traced back to 1882 when a determined local priest urged his congregation to properly honour the 1,550th anniversary of St. Patrick’s landing in Ireland. In response, a small group of men formed a fife and drum band, notably featuring a homemade bass drum.

At dawn on that first St. Patrick’s morning, they set out from Molly’s house in Dooagh—the island’s most westerly dwelling at the time—marching five miles to Dookinella Church for Mass.

It was a humble beginning, but one that ignited a tradition that continues to burn brightly today.

Read more at the link below:

https://www.irishcentral.com/opinion/others/st-patricks-day-achill-island