'10/10' Corkmas parade marks start of festive season in city

Thousands in Cork were treated to a “wonderful spectacle” at the Corkmas parade, undeterred by wet and rainy conditions.

The annual Corkmas parade, organised by Cork City Council, kicked off on Friday evening from North Main St at 7pm, with onlookers coming out in droves despite the adverse weather.

The event, which featured a star-studded line-up of performers, including Santa Claus and his long-time nemesis, The Grinch, culminated with the ignition of the city’s Christmas lights.

Members of the Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance, the Butter Exchange Band and the Barrack Street Band were also featured in the entertainment line-up.

Speaking to The Echo, a spokesperson for Cork City Council said the Local Authority is “delighted with the success of the Corkmas parade”.

“We’d like to thank all the performers, all the various agencies, volunteers and council staff who worked so hard to ensure the event ran smoothly,” the spokesperson said.

“We’d also like to thank the thousands of people who wrapped up for rain and came out to enjoy the parade -[they] were treated to a wonderful spectacle.

“We told people that postponing the parade was not an option given that many of the performers were required elsewhere this weekend.

“The rain even stopped at 7.30pm when Santa stopped in the middle of Patrick’s St to ask the Lord Mayor, and the crowd, for help turning on the Christmas lights."

The spokesperson additionally said for those who couldn’t make the parade, “there are lots more Corkmas events planned over the coming weekends, from Christmas markets to the Ferris Wheel.” 

It is also understood for the first time in two years, the newly renovated Bishop Lucey Park will host a number of family-friendly Corkmas events over the coming weeks, with further information yet to be announced.

Sinn Féin councillor for the Cork City North West ward, Kenneth Collins said this year’s parade was a “10 out of 10”.

“Congratulations to Cork City Council and all that took part for putting on a free event that brought maybe 30,000 people into the city,” said Mr Collins.

“I know it was probably down on last year, but the atmosphere was amazing. 

"I thought it was a fantastic event, people were happy, they were singing, [and] they were delighted that Santa was there.

“The rain thankfully slowed down for that period of an hour and a half – overall, it was a 10 out of 10.”