Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day Parade Returns in Style for 50th Anniversary Celebration

Birmingham‘s vibrant St Patrick's Day Parade is making a triumphant return to the lively streets of Digbeth this year, marking its remarkable 50th year anniversary. The festive extravaganza promises a day filled with dancing, live music, and an array of colorful performances, including a special tribute to the late Shane MacGowan, former frontman of The Pogues.

This joyous event, the first in four years, is expected to draw a crowd of thousands, transforming the bustling Digbeth area into a sea of green and bringing a wave of excitement to the city. Known to attract up to 80,000 attendees in the past, Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day Parade has cemented its status as one of the largest celebrations of its kind, following closely behind Dublin and New York.

The parade is scheduled to kick off at the top of Bradford Street at noon, winding its way through the vibrant streets before reaching the junction with Rea Street around 2pm. With a lineup of diverse performances, including Irish and Caribbean dancers, Welsh and Chinese dragons, and a lively confetti blast to start the festivities, attendees can expect a day brimming with cultural delights.

As the grand celebration unfolds, road closures will be in effect in Digbeth to accommodate the parade. National Express West Midlands bus services, such as routes 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, and 50, will be diverted, ensuring smooth transportation for all participants. Additionally, a secure, attended car park will be available on Charles Henry Street for those arriving by car, with parking proceeds supporting the parade.

To heighten the festivities, iconic landmarks such as Selfridges and the Library of Birmingham are expected to illuminate the city in vibrant green hues, setting the stage for a memorable 50th anniversary celebration. A special commemoration for Shane MacGowan will also take place during the parade, with a touching moment of singing “Dirty Old Town” in his honor.