The shamrocks and leprechauns are ready as the Father Ray Foundation and local Irish groups plan to take to the streets for Pattaya’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Father Ray representative Ajjima Chaowalitthumrong said the March 17 celebration is funded by 2 million baht from city hall for the fourth consecutive year. Ajjima said no fewer than 30 floats are expected for the parade, which will be filmed live.
Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.
This year’s parade route will begin on Second Road at the Alcazar Theatre and turn onto Soi 4 before marching down Beach Road to Walking Street. The parade then turns on South Road and ends at Pattaya School No. 8.
Two lanes of traffic will be closed for the parade, which runs from 3-4:30 p.m.
All marchers and floats will be decked out in the traditional green. A marching band comprised of students from all Pattaya public schools will help pump up the volume.
The opening ceremony kicks off at 2 p.m. in front of the Alcazar Theatre where a beer-drinking competition will be held. Closing ceremonies will be held at Pattaya School No. 8, offering prize drawings and awards to the best floats.
