Local Notes: 74th annual St Patrick's Day Parade in Swinford.
The Naionra Montessori were one of the many floats taking part in the 74th annual St Patrick's Day Parade in Swinford. Pic Michael Maye
Swinford hosted their very successful 74th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Tuesday, March 17. The weather held up with a large number of participants and spectators enjoying the occasion. Grand Marshall on the day was Conor Goldrick who was also flying the flag for Martin Woods and John Greene. The trio were selected in recognition of their outstanding musical achievements at the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil and their continued dedication to keeping traditional Irish music alive.
The theme of the 2026 Parade was “Irish Myths, Legends and Folklore,” which delivered a colourful spectacle of floats, music, costumes and entertainment as the parade made its way through the streets of the town.
Festivities begun on Friday, March 13, with the official launch night and table quiz in The White House, Swinford. Congratulations to winners Martin Conlon, Julie, James and Padraig Owens. On Saturday, March 14, the Michael Davitt Comhaltas branch hosted Trad Trails throughout the town, which brought together talented local musicians, singers and dancers to perform in various pubs.
The committee is now looking forward to the 2027 parade which will mark the 75th Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade in Swinford with plans in place to host a week long event. Thank you to everyone who contributed in any way to the success of the 2026 parade.
Items for inclusion in the notes can be submitted to Julie Ryan as follows: email ryankneafsey@gmail.com or call leaving a voicemail if not answered/text/WhatsApp 087 7694781 (after 6pm). Deadline for receipt of items is 6.30pm Wednesday.
Results from the card game held on Thursday, March 12, in Swinford Golf Club. 1st/2nd prize was shared by Noreen Geraghty, Eileen Geraghty, Jack Pidgeon and Philip Moore; 3rd prize was shared by Maureen Morley, Tom Morley, Fr Paddy Smith and Seamus Conwell. Raffle prizes were won by Fr Paddy Smith, Virginia Heeran, Michael Regan, Margaret Sweeney, Gerry Ronayne, Tom Durkan and Carmel Timoney. Winners at table 4 were Michael and Mary Lynskey on the last game.
The winner of the ladies weekend competition held on March 14/15 was Breege Spain, 2nd Helen McNicholas and 3rd Dympna O'Donnell.
The first Gardening Club talk of the year will take place this evening Tuesday, March 24 in the Meeting Room on Lower Main Street. Horticulturist Martin O’Connor will speak on all aspects of Spring in the Garden. He will be happy to answer any questions after the talk. All are welcome to attend. Non members €5.
Congratulations to Anita Maloney, Swinford, who won €500 in the Swinford GAA 50/50 draw.
Vision Ireland Swinford is seeking the following donations as follows: ladies wear - including accessories and shoes, menswear - casual wear and shoes, furniture – such as chest of drawers, small two-seater couches, bookcases, kitchen chairs. Any unopened gift sets /cosmetics would also be appreciated. Paper/plastic bags also are also required. Any queries call 087 4827468 or emailswinford.retail@vi.ie.
Ladies Basketball Swinford is looking for new players. If you are looking for great exercise, a non-competitive sport, great company and a super laugh then this is for you. No previous training or experience needed, it’s a game for all skill levels and just for fun. Swinford Community Centre on Thursdays at 8.30pm. Contact Yvonne on 083 3065689 for further information.
Trade stand applications now open for Swinford Agricultural Show which will be held on August 23, at Gleeson’s Farm, Cullane. Catering and coffee, agri supplies and demonstrations, crafts, confectionary, artisan craft and food stalls. Public liability insurance must be in place. To apply email swinfordagrishow@gmail.com or call 087 1181680.
The numbers drawn in the Swinford Community Lotto draw held on March 16 were; 3, 24, 25 and 28. There was no jackpot winner. €70 vouchers were won by Ewelina Kapek, Cloonagalloon and Gráinne Boland, c/o Bolands, The jackpot is now €3,400.
The 14th annual Easter Sunday Easter Egg Hunt will be held in Brabazon Park at 2pm. Park in the Amenity Park and follow the signs. Admission free, donation box for charity on the day. The Easter Bunny will be in attendance. Sponsored by Eurospar and Swinford Tidy Towns. Bring the children along to a very enjoyable occasion.
Foxtrot is back on Sunday, April 19, at 1pm from the Foxford Leisure Centre. This year is a 5km fun run for all the family. Prizes and raffle on the day. This is an opportunity to raise funds for Brenda Walsh Grealis as well as the local community. Brenda, originally from Callow, was recently diagnosed with PERM Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS). This is an extremely rare, severe neurological disease that causes extreme muscle rigidity, painful spasms, and progressive loss of mobility. A gifted singer and musician, she is a wife and mother of four children. We, the communities of Callow, Foxford and the surrounding area are coming together with Foxtrot in an effort to raise much needed funds to assist Brenda and her family with this life changing condition. Any enquiries contact Ann on 086 8302975 or Helen on 085 8282000.
People living in Swinford who are interested in the town's future development are invited to share their views as part of a consultation exploring the possible establishment of a Swinford Community Council. This stage of the process is primarily about listening and gathering views, no decisions are being taken yet. To take part contact call Eamon Connolly 089 416 5055, email: eamon@methodconsultants.ie.
Congratulations to Adam Campbell, son of Ann Marie and Enda Campbell on his fantastic win with the Republic of Ireland U20 Volleyball team defeating Northern Ireland in the St. Patrick’s Challenge on March 14 in TUD Tallaght.
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A brand new class for mums and their little dance partners is being launched. Jiving Babies and Mums will be a fun, relaxed dance class where mums and babies can move, bond and meet other mums. Part of the class includes gentle, mum-friendly exercise, while another part is baby-friendly dancing and movement where your little one can join in. We’ll enjoy a mix of line dancing, waltzing and more, with plenty of smiles along the way.
The class is starting on Thursday, April 9, in Bohola Community Centre, from 11am to 12.30pm for six weeks. Booking is essential at https://jivingjuniors-sandradance.classforkids.io/â .
Bohola Easter Camp will be held in The Sheridan Memorial Community Centre from Wednesday April 1- Friday, April 3, from 10am to 1pm daily. The camp is Easter themed with arts, games and dance. The cost is €55 per child/€100 for 2 siblings and is suitable for children ages 3 - 10. Booking is essential. Contact Sandra 086 2108029 or jivingjuniors@gmail.com.
This year's Moy Davitts Golf Classic takes place at Ballina Golf Club on Saturday, May 30. Entry fee is €160 per team of four and there will be some major prizes on the day for all winners. Competitions on the day include Longest Drive and Nearest the Pin and the top prizes will includen away and green fees at some of the top golf courses in Ireland. There will also be a halfway house barbeque at the 9th hole for those looking for a bite to eat and drink during their round. To book contact Ballina Golf Club on 096 21050 or info@ballina-golf.com and early booking is advised.
Congratulations to Edel Staunton, who won a jackpot of €458 in the Moy Davitts 50/50 draw on Saturday, March 16. A huge thank you to everyone who supported the draw, it is greatly appreciated. Tickets are available in the usual retail outlets and by playing on the club app (Moy Davitts GAA).
Moy Davitts are holding a gear wwap on Easter Monday in Bohola Community Centre. Over the next few weeks, the club be looking for all your pre-loved jerseys, jackets, goodies, football shorts, football boots etc. If you have any sports items that you'd like to donate to the Gear Swap, contact Mike Kelly on 087 1967360. Please ensure all gear donated is in a clean and in usable condition.
The death occurred of Charlie Gallagher, Culmore, Swinford, who died on Thursday, March 112. His funeral took place in Swinford on Saturday, March 14. He was the brother-in-law of PJ Walsh, Lissaniskey; Eileen McGowan, Grange, Co Sligo and formerly of Ballinisland, who died on Saturday, March 7, and whose funeral took place in Toomore on Tuesday, March 10. She was the first cousin of Tom Howley, Carracastle; Betty Coughlan, Lissycasey, Co Clare, who died on Saturday, March 7, and whose funeral took place in Lissycasey on Wednesday, March 11. She was the sister of Mary McNicholas, Rosslevin. Sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved.
Bohola NS Parents Association will hold a Ladies night in the Village Inn on Friday, April 10. All are welcome.
The grounds of Turlough Park are home to lots of different habitats with woodland, gardens, lake and river areas. Throughout the biodiverse grounds, you can explore plants, trees, birds and animals, big and small. Some are native and some are not. Pick up the new ‘Woodland Explorer’ activity booklet from Museum reception to learn more on a self-guided nature trail through Turlough Park. Use your keen senses and skills to complete a series of fun nature challenges to finish the trail! No booking require and the nature trail has free admission.
