Discovering Ireland in the Heart of London By: Lauren Avila
On Sunday, 16th March, London’s Trafalgar Square was host for the St. Patrick’s Day Festival & Parade, celebrating Irish culture with thousands of locals and tourists. It was a feast for the senses with the colors, music, food, drink, and Irish lore everywhere. The event kicked off with a parade from Hyde Park, along Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and concluded at Whitehall. Attendees came out in droves and in high spirits, adopting the Irish culture, even if only for the day, regardless of their origin. There was a sense of joy and pride illuminating the streets as everyone cheered alongside the parade.. The cavalcade, shining in hues of green and gold, included floats, musicians, singers, dancers, runners, costumed performers, and representatives of charities. Each group celebrated and recognized contributions of the Irish community, whether locally or internationally. Along the route, parade viewers could spot the Council of Irish County Association of London, a children’s Irish marching band, the Irish London Running Club, ASM Recycling and SISK Contractors, a company established in Cork, Ireland.
In the midst of the Square was an abundance of Irish arts and culture. At the main stage was an ongoing presentation of Irish talent, from traditional Irish dance to a ceilidh band to singers. Surrounding the stage was a culmination of more Irish cultural immersion. Vendors for merchandise, food, Ireland tourism, and local Irish groups in London. There was also a beautiful art exhibit, called “Peace Heroines,” which recognized some of Ireland’s most accomplished female contemporaries working towards peace, including Bronagh Hinds, Susan McRory, Pat Hume, Eileen Weir, Saidie Patterson, Anne Carr, Monice McWilliams, Pearl Sagar, and Baroness May Blood.
Behind the food stalls were some of the best booths, including a booth to learn the dances, try some Irish crafts, and be introduced to Irish creators and their work. This last booth mentioned was presented by the Irish Creative Collective, an organization which showcases Irish talent from musicians to comedians to filmmakers. In this booth, there was an entire schedule of events for Irish creative arts to be shared with the public. These events were intended to educate, entertain, and inform about Ireland and their heritage. Among the creatives was a storyteller who also presented an introduction to the Irish language with words and phrases, such as “my name is…”
There was also a screening of three short films made by Irish filmmakers. They were called “Boogaloo and Graham,” “Color Me Pink,” and “Dear Imelda.” Each film was made in Ireland and not only had a touching story, but wonderful visuals to enjoy. Fortunately they are all available to watch online. Catch “Boogaloo and Graham” on Disney+, “Color Me Pink” on YouTube, and “Dear Imelda” on the Samansa app.
From every corner of the arts and culture world, it was thrilling to see that the arts are alive and well in Ireland! How wonderful that Irish natives came to share their talents and introduce their culture in a beautiful and warm way.
