Organisers are promising a famous Irish welcome as the St Patrick’s Day Festival returns to York for the first time in two years this weekend.
Emerald Isle traditions will be in full force with Irish dancing, ceilidh and a bar to make the most of the long-overdue occasion.
Among the acts taking part will be folk group Hyde Family Jam, singer songwriter Paula Ryan and youth folk group Folkestra.
York Irish St Patrick’s Day Festival Weekend takes place this Saturday 19 March in St Sampson’s Square from 11am till 7:30pm.
It is staged by the York Irish Association, which celebrates connections between the two locations – almost 8% of York’s population is made up of descendants from the Emerald Isle.
As a group the association welcomes anyone with an interest in Ireland and runs regular events with something for everyone to enjoy.
Chair of the York Irish Association, Brendan Tannam, expressed his delight over the return of festivities. He said: “We are delighted to be hosting what is now our sixth York Irish St. Patrick’s Festival. With Irish dancing performances, live music, and a ceilidh, there should be something for everyone to enjoy.
“It should be a great atmosphere in the marquee and we look forward to giving the famous Irish welcome to the crowds again this year.”
The O’Connor Academy of Irish Dance are running a class for anyone over the age of five to try out Irish dancing, places are limited so be sure to reserve your place ahead of the day.
Also, the marquee will feature a history display featuring information on the York Gaelic Football Club.
Ahead of the weekend’s celebrations, pubs around the city are out in full force ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day this evening (Thursday 17 March).
The festival is free to attend and more information can be found on Facebook and Twitter.