The 2025 New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is set to feature two distinguished bands from County Donegal, Ireland: Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola (Cloughaneely Senior Band) and the Letterkenny & District Pipe Band. Their participation continues a proud tradition of Donegal bands gracing this iconic event, following in the footsteps of groups like the Maghery Fife and Drum Band and St. Catherine’s Band from Killybegs.
Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola
Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola has achieved remarkable success in the All-Ireland Fleadh, securing senior titles in 2017, 2018, and 2023. Their vibrant performances and dedication to preserving Ireland’s rich musical heritage have earned them a beloved presence in the community. The band’s upcoming participation in the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade marks their first performance in the United States. Notably, their junior counterparts, Buíon Cheoil Chloich Cheann Fhaola, previously represented the region at the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 2009, showcasing the enduring musical talent of the area.
Letterkenny & District Pipe Band
The Letterkenny & District Pipe Band is set to embark on a significant journey to New York City for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. From March 14th to 19th, 65 members and supporters will represent Letterkenny and County Donegal on an international stage. Their itinerary includes performances at the Throggs Neck Parade in the Bronx on March 16th and the iconic Fifth Avenue Parade on March 17th, the world’s oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Continuing Donegal’s Legacy in New York
Donegal bands have a storied history of participating in New York’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. In 2019, the Maghery Fife and Drum Band showcased their talents on Fifth Avenue, bringing traditional Irish music to the international stage. More recently, in 2024, St. Catherine’s Band from Killybegs not only marched in the parade but also received first place in the Foreign Ensemble Bands category, a testament to their exceptional performance. The inclusion of Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola and the Letterkenny & District Pipe Band in the 2025 parade continues this rich legacy, highlighting the vibrant cultural exchange between Donegal and New York.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the world’s oldest and largest, with its 264th iteration scheduled for March 17, 2025. The parade commences precisely at 11:00 am EST, starting on 5th Avenue at 44th Street and concluding around 4:30 pm. Approximately 150,000 participants march in the parade, drawing about 2 million spectators. The inclusion of both Buíon Cheoil Sinsear Chloich Cheann Fhaola and the Letterkenny & District Pipe Band in this prestigious event highlights the vibrant cultural exchange between Ireland and the United States and offers a unique opportunity for audiences to experience authentic Irish music and marching traditions.