Patrick Kielty has been announced as Grand Marshal for this year’s National St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The comedian and TV presenter said he “couldn’t be more excited” to take on the role six months after taking the helm of The Late Late Show.

Speaking at the launch this morning, he said it still “doesn’t really feel real”.

“For me, Paddy’s Day has always been like a second birthday,” he said.

“It’s always that excuse to have a big party and wherever I’ve been around the world, you really want to tune in but I’m just looking forward to being home for Paddy’s Day and being part of the party.”

Patrick Kielty (centre) at St. Patricks Cathedral where he was unveiled as St Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal, 22-02-2024. Image: Fran Veale/Julien Behal Photography

Festival organisers said this year’s parade will be “driven by the values of joy, community, diversity and sustainability”.

This year’s theme is ‘Spréach’ (spark), which organisers say represents the unique essence of Ireland and of the Irish People.

“It’s what sets us apart and what brings us together, and oftentimes it’s the reason that people from all over the world have a special place in their hearts for Irish people, place and culture,” they said.

Patrick Kielty with a Tuath De Danann puppet at St. Patricks Cathedral where he was unveiled as St Patrick’s Day Grand Marshal, 22-02-2024. Image: Fran Veale/Julien Behal Photography

With half a million spectators expected to line this year’s route, the Parade will feature 18 pageants and performance showpieces, 14 marching bands and over 4,000 participants in what is shaping up to be the largest-ever National St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

One of the newest pageants on show will celebrate the Festival’s connection to Dublin’s inner city, with residents taking centre stage on the streets of the capital.

The Festival is also continuing to work with Ireland’s foremost creative pageant companies including Bui Bolg, Spraoi, Inishowen Carnival, The Outing Queer Arts Collective, Artastic and Dublin Cycling Campaign.

Meanwhile, the Olympic Federation of Ireland will look forward to Paris 2024, while also celebrating 100 years of Irish participation in the Olympic Games.

Parade Grandstand Seats and Hospitality Packages are all sold out, but for those that are unable to attend this year’s Parade, the full Parade will be broadcast live on RTÉ One and around the world on RTÉ Player.

The St. Patrick’s Festival Quarter is also returning to Collins Barracks on Saturday and Sunday of the long weekend.{atrick