St Patrick’s Day in Dublin: Flute band cheered and clapped as it participated in parade

People cheered and clapped as members of various Northern Ireland flute bands passed the GPO during the St Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin on Sunday.

The Flute Band Association of Northern Ireland, an umbrella organisation with 19 aligned bands, made its first appearance at the parade in the city since the late 1970s, said Stephen Bailie, chair of the group.

“It was superb day from start to finish. The crowds were massive and we were made more than welcome, not problems,” said Mr Baillie.

Around 35 individual members of bands from across the north took part in the parade, many playing flute but other instruments too.

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While individual bands are believed to have taken part in the Dublin parade - notably Ballygowan in the late 1990s - the association has not sent a contingent since the late 1970s. The older members remember it was freezing day, with snow on the ground, said Mr Baillie.

Following the appearance and march, members were greeted by Fianna Fail Senator, Mark Daly, the vice-chair of the Seanad.

“Welcoming the Flute Band Association of Northern Ireland for their first appearance in the Dublin St Patricks Day festival parade,” Senator Daly said. Ulster Scots dancers were also involved in the day’s pageantry.

More than 4,200 participants took part in the parade in the capital. Tens of thousands lined the streets.

Marching bands, dancers, sporting clubs and many from overseas were among those participating in the parade.

The parade featured six large-scale pageants and 11 show pieces.

Late Late Show presenter Patrick Kielty, the grand marshal of the national parade in Dublin, described Ireland’s national day as “the biggest party in the world”.