Kabin Crew kids to lead Cork city's Patrick's Day parade

The Kabin Studio’s march for global domination continues, with the northside heroes announced as grand marshals for this year’s Cork city St Patrick’s Day parade.

It follows on from the viral hit scored by Knocknaheeny troubadours The Kabin Crew and their Co Clare confederates the Lisdoonvarna Crew with their anthem The Spark. The honour recognises The Kabin Studio’s impact over the past decade as a vibrant creative community hub.

Organised by Cork City Council, the Cork St Patrick’s Day parade is one of the high points of the city’s calendar, coming at the culmination of the Cork St Patrick’s Festival, which will run from March 14-17.

This year’s parade will start at 1pm on St Patrick’s Day and will follow the familiar route from South Mall to Merchants Quay.

The parade will include more than 2,500 participants, featuring performance showpieces from professional art groups Cork Community Artlink and Spraoi, as well as marching bands and groups from near and far.

The theme of this year’s parade is ‘Building A Better World — Celebrating the UN International Year of Co-operatives’.

Garry McCarthy, creative director of The Kabin Studio, said all involved were delighted to showcase not just the talented young people and kids at The Kabin Studio, but also to bring along their families and the wider community.

“For the past 13 years, we’ve been building something special in Knocknaheeny, and to now have the opportunity to bring that spark into the heart of the city at such a big, positive event is a huge moment for us,” he said.

“It’s a chance for everyone to see the amazing characters, performers, and vibrant community that make The Kabin what it is.”

Green Party councillor Dan Boyle, Lord Mayor of Cork, said the parade would be the focal point of a great weekend festival across the city this year, with much to enjoy between the Friday and the big day on March 17.

“Cork has put on a fantastic programme of events of music, dance, and cultural activities. I know you will enjoy supporting our local venues on this wonderful weekend,” he said.

The four-day festival will showcase a range of events supported by Fáilte Ireland, with trad music performances from the Lee Sessions, live music, guided tours, dance, comedy, exhibitions, and family-friendly events.

There will also be a night market with entertainment on Cornmarket St on Friday, March 14.

Cork St Patrick’s Festival social media pages will feature information both on the parade and on the different events taking place, and festival brochures will be available in all Cork City Library branches, the Tourist Office, and around the city centre.

The full programme plus booking links appear on www.corkstpatricksfestival.ie, which also will list road closures and bus diversions necessary for the parade.

Founded in 2012 by music producer Garry McCarthy — and supported by Music Generation Cork City, Cork City Council, and the Tomar Trust — The Kabin Studio empowers young people through rap, hip hop, songwriting, digital media, and performance on Cork city’s northside.