27 years on and the interest in Ballon’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade remains a constant. The 28th renewal of the event, held on Sunday 16th March saw crowds stretching from the Garage Cross to Dowlings Cross in spite of it being a day earlier than normal.
The parade started at the Land League and took about 45 minutes to pass the reviewing stand. On the stand were: Rev Fr. Brendan Howard P.P., John Murphy, Leas Cathaoirleach, Carlow County Council, Councillors: Willy Quinn, Tommy Kinsella, Charlie Murphy. Marty Barry acted as MC with Eileen Murphy taking care of the administration.
Live Music was provided by Pat Doran & Eamon Brennan who kept the crowd well entertained.
Special thanks to all our sponsors: Ballon Improvement Group – Parade Sponsr, Ballon Bingo, Jimmy’s Takeaway, Top Shop, Nolan Deli & Tyres, Kavanagh’s Pub, Joe Doyles Pub. Michael McAssey, Tom Donoghue – trailer.
There was a good reaction by the onlookers as the walking groups and floats were entertaining. The pictures following can tell the story better than words and they are sub divided into categories.
The Viewers 
The Paraders
Vintage Cars
Commercials
And the winners are:
Trophies were sponsored by Cheetah and were presented in the following categories
Best Overall : Farce Brooks – Brian Darcy, Kevin Barry, P. Abbey, Davy Barry
Best Walking Group: Cúchúlainn Rounders Club
Most Original: Recession Man – John Murphy, Killanure, Tullow
Most Topical: Mick Wallace & Friend – Eamonn Brennan & Pat Doran
Best Community Effort: Siopa Glas
Best Commercial Float: Richmund Wrought Iron Works
Most Amusing: Farce Brooks – Brian Darcy, Kevin Barry, P. Abbey, Davy Barry
Oldest Vehicle on Parade in working order; 1904 Steam Engine from Glynns
