Dungloe is set to host its annual Easter Sunday Marching Band Parade on April 20, 2025, continuing a tradition that has become a significant event in Donegal’s cultural calendar.
While the full list of attending bands has yet to be confirmed, organisers anticipate a strong turnout. In previous years, groups such as Meenacross Band, Cloughaneely Band, Donegal Town Band, Crickamore Band, Mullaghduff Band, Annagry Band, Ranfast Senior Band, Killybegs Band, and St. Crona’s Band, Dungloe have all taken part.
Bands will assessed in categories including Best Overall Band, Best Junior Band, Best Senior Band, Best Drum Major, and Best Uniforms.
In 2024, Maghery Fife and Drum Band received multiple awards, including Best Band on Parade and Best Drum Major. With Dungloe Junior band winning the novice section and Cloughaneely junior band winning the junior miscellaneous/accordion section.
The parade is scheduled to commence at 3:30 PM, with participating bands assembling at St. Crona’s car park on Chapel Road from 3:00 PM. The procession will proceed through Main Street, turning at the old fire station, and returning to The Ionad for disbandment.
For many bands, this parade marks the beginning of the competitive season. Notably, the Maghery Fife and Drum Band enters this season on the heels of their eighth consecutive Senior Flute All-Ireland title, bringing their total to 12. They are now one title away from equaling the record for the longest consecutive wins streak, held by the Mullaghduff Fife and Drum Band.
Additionally, the Cloughaneely Junior Band secured the All-Ireland title in the junior miscellaneous marching band section for the second consecutive year in 2024. St. Catherine’s Band from Killybegs also celebrated their first All-Ireland title in 2024, following their inaugural Ulster title win.
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Dungloe is also preparing to host the 2025 Donegal Fleadh from May 8 to 11, further emphasizing the town’s role in promoting traditional Irish music and culture.