Leeds Irish Health and Homes was proud to take part in Leeds’ St Patrick’s Day Parade once again on Sunday 12th March.
The weather was kind and over 5,500 people turned out to watch the floats, watch live performances of Irish music, eat, drink, dance and turn the city green. The theme for the LIHH float was Irish folklore, and our Arts and Wellbeing Support Worker Megan McClean oversaw the creation of a magical wonderland complete with giant mushrooms.
Our arts and crafts groups have been working hard for months to help create decorations with an eco, recycled theme and the overall effect was incredible - bright banners, trailing streamers, and a riot of colour! There were also some incredible costumes, including fairies, leprechauns, tricksters and little toadstools.
Sadly, LIHH had to hand over the title of Best Float this year - but with three wins since 2000, we felt it was time for someone else to claim the trophy. And St Theresa’s Primary School and their fantastic float were very deserving winners!
After speeches and thanks for everyone’s hard work - particularly that of the St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee - the show really got going, with performances from Leeds Comhaltas, Leeds Irish Choir and Strangers in Trainers amongst others.
“What a fabulous day,” said Ant Hanlon, CEO of LIHH. “Congratulations to the St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee - to have over 5000 people in Millennium Square celebrating Irish culture and the contribution of Irish people past, present and future to this city is simply incredible.”
Photographs courtesy of Karen Rangeley.
