This year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade in Athy promises to be a celebration, reflection, and community spirit, with local legends leading the charge. On Monday, March 17th, the town will come together to honour its heritage and look forward to the future with this year’s theme: Pulling Together. It’s a nod to the strong sense of unity that has always defined Athy.

Betty O’Donnell, a beloved figure in Athy and a centenarian who celebrated her 100th birthday in August 2024, will be at the heart of this year’s parade. Betty’s legacy is deeply tied to the town through her many years running The Gem on Duke Street, a local landmark known for its wide range of books, stationery, and newsagent goods. Betty, who took over the business alongside her late husband Jimmy, was a pillar of the community, always involved in local life. She even served as Lady Captain and Lady President of Athy Golf Club, positions she held with distinction. Betty’s commitment to the community, good nature, and enduring connection to the town make her the perfect Grand Marshal for the 2025 parade.

Local historian Frank Taaffe reflects on Betty’s place in the town’s history, noting how her name is forever intertwined with The Gem, a cherished part of Athy’s story. As a lifelong resident, Betty symbolises the town’s welcoming spirit, which has always embraced those who come to Athy, whether native or not.

In addition to Betty, the Ardscoil na Tríonóide Senior Football Team will be honoured as Grand Marshals for their incredible achievements in 2025. This team made history with their performance in the Brother Bosco Cup, reaching the final in the school’s history for the first time ever. Their run this year was nothing short of remarkable. After a strong group stage, including a commanding victory over Ashbourne CS, they triumphed over Ardee CS and Naas CBS in the knockout stages. Their historic win over Naas CBS, the defending champions, was one of the highlights of their season. Though they ultimately lost in the final to Coláiste Mhuire Mullingar after an intense extra-time battle, their journey to the final was a testament to their hard work, determination, and talent.

This year’s parade will also showcase a variety of local groups and organisations, with a special focus on community unity. If you’re part of a local club, charity, school, business, or group of friends, Athy Town Promoters invites you to get involved. Whether you have a float idea or want to participate in the festivities, there’s still time to join in the fun! For more information, contact Patricia Berry at 086 8470232 or via email at pberry@kildarecoco.ie.

The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of Athy. Organised by Athy Town Promoters and supported by local property tax funding, the parade will kick off at 3pm on March 17th. It’s a free event for the whole community to enjoy, and a fantastic way to honor both the rich history of the town and the bright future ahead.

We can’t wait to see you there to celebrate with Betty O’Donnell, the Ardscoil na Tríonóide football team, and the entire Athy community.

Let’s all pull together this St. Patrick’s Day!