Every March, Limerick City comes alive with colour, music, and celebration as thousands gather to mark St Patrick’s Festival. At the centre of it all are our two parades, and behind every successful parade is a dedicated team of volunteers who make it happen.
This year, we are inviting enthusiastic, reliable, and community-minded people to join our volunteer team and help steward two of the festival’s flagship events:
- International Band Parade - 15th March 2026
- St Patrick’s Day Parade - 17th March 2026
As a parade steward, you won’t just be watching from the sidelines, you’ll be right in the heart of the action, walking alongside performers, bands, and community groups as they make their way through the city.
Volunteering with the St Patrick’s Festival offers a unique behind-the-scenes experience. You’ll see the parades come together from the inside, meet visiting artists and performers, and work as part of a friendly, supportive team. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with tea and pastries before the parade, giving you a chance to meet fellow volunteers and get briefed for the day.
After the event, you’ll be invited back for sandwiches and refreshments, a well-earned chance to relax, reflect, and celebrate a job well done. It’s a full-day experience that combines teamwork, community spirit, and plenty of fun.
What Will Volunteers Do?
Parade stewards play a vital role in ensuring that events run smoothly and safely. Volunteers will:
- Walk alongside parade groups and performers
- Help maintain timing and steady movement along the route
- Support crowd safety and event organisation
- Communicate with event staff and fellow stewards
- Engage with the positive, vibrant atmosphere and help spread the joy
You’ll be trusted with real responsibility and supported throughout by experienced festival staff.
Who Should Apply?
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds who are excited to be part of this special celebration. Applicants should:
- Be able to walk the full parade route (approximately 1.5–2km)
- Have a good level of spoken English
- Be comfortable working in a team environment
- Be reliable, positive, and enthusiastic
- Enjoy engaging with the public and performers
No previous stewarding or event experience is required, full guidance and support will be provided on the day.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering with Limerick’s St Patrick’s Festival is more than just giving your time — it’s about being part of something bigger.
By joining our team, you will:
- Gain valuable experience in live event and festival management
- Meet new people and make lasting connections
- Contribute to one of the city’s most important cultural events
- Build confidence, communication, and teamwork skills
- Create unforgettable memories at one of Ireland’s most joyful celebrations
Many volunteers return year after year, drawn back by the sense of pride, camaraderie, and community that comes with being part of the festival family.
Join Us and Make It Happen!
If you love Limerick, enjoy working with people, and want to experience St Patrick’s Festival from a completely new perspective, we would love to hear from you.
- Come walk with the performers.
- Support your city.
- Share in the excitement.
- And help us deliver two unforgettable parade days in March 2026.
Apply now and be part of the heart of Limerick’s St Patrick’s Festival.
