World record attempt to be part Luton’s Irish heritage celebrations

A Guinness Book of World Records attempt will be part of a vibrant display of Irish heritage to ignite the community spirit in Luton this month during the 26^th anniversary St Patrick’s Festival Parade.

Organised by the Luton Irish Forum, the parade, on Saturday, March 15, will once again bring a vibrant display of Irish heritage to the town centre, celebrating culture, music, and community, while a world record attempt for the biggest Slosh dance will take place at 1:30pm, with more than 535 people needed to take part.

Running as part of the wider Luton St Patrick’s Festival (March 1 – 17), the parade will feature a colourful procession of community groups, marching bands, and Irish performers providing entertainment for all, such as popular local bands playing at the Hat Factory after party on the March 15, including Missing The Ferry, who have written a special song about Luton, and Chamberlane.

Julia Horsman, Manager of parade sponsors Luton BID, said: “Luton’s St Patrick’s Day Parade is a key moment in the town’s cultural calendar, and we are thrilled to be supporting it again this year. Events like this not only celebrate our diverse community but also bring hundreds of people into the town centre, boosting footfall for local businesses. We can’t wait to see the town come alive with Irish music, dance, and celebration.”

The parade will commence at 11 am from Luton Irish Forum, making its way at walking pace to the performance stage in St George’s Square, arriving at approximately 11:30 am. Spectators can expect a lively and inclusive celebration, featuring traditional Irish music, dance performances, and family-friendly entertainment.

Festival Chair, Nuala Ely, said: “It’s a day for all Luton communities to come and have fun, an opportunity to reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a while, to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.  You can always rely on the Irish Community to support one another, through good and bad times and always have the craic!”

Mayor of Luton, Counsellor Tahmina Saleem said: “For the past 25 years, we’ve come together on St Patrick’s Day to celebrate the rich contribution of the Irish community in Luton and the strong, enduring links between our town and the Emerald Isle. This year, we continue this tradition with a fantastic range of events over two weeks, culminating in a show-stopping parade in the town centre.”

For the full St Patrick’s Festival programme and updates, visit the Luton Irish Forum website