
Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Parade was the first of its kind in Britain when it started in 1952. Over 80,000 people used to attend at its peak – making it the third biggest St Patrick’s Parade in the world too. But, after a four-year gap, the Irish celebrations only recently returned to Digbeth in 2024, so can Birmingham paint the streets green like it used to?
Of course, it can! Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day Parade will return on Sunday, March 16, with the Birmingham Irish Association promising “this year it is going to be even bigger and better” – making one major improvement. After listening to feedback on last year’s event, it’s returning to its traditional route and heading down Digbeth High Street.
The High Street has undergone extensive redevelopment in recent years, with Digbeth’s roadworks one of the main reasons why it took so long for the Parade to return, after COVID-19. It means there will now be more space for crowds and safer viewing areas along the length of the route for everyone to enjoy St Patrick’s Day.
What can I expect from Birmingham St Patrick’s Parade?
At noon, a confetti blast will signal the start of the St Patrick’s Parade from Camp Hill before it heads down Digbeth High Street towards Selfridges. Not only will the Parade be celebrating Irish culture and community, but also the diversity and multiculturalism of Birmingham – from Irish and Caribbean dancers to Welsh and Chinese dragons.
Last year saw over 40 floats in the procession, everyone from primary schools to Samba bands, vintage scooterists and boxing clubs. St Patrick’s Parade organisers hope to eclipse that number this year, and you can register your walking groups and floats by heading here. You will also find food stalls and a children’s funfair on the day.