Birmingham's St Patrick's Day celebrations are going ahead without the traditional parade this year. Organisers say they did not have the resources to put on the event safely, but the city's Irish Quarter will still mark the occasion with a festival of music, dance, and cultural events.
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00:00Birmingham's Irish Quarter is preparing for St Patrick's Day with a series of events despite
00:07the cancellation of its parade. The organisers say they could not secure the resources needed
00:13to ensure a safe and successful event. The parade has historically drawn tens of thousands
00:19of visitors and was among the largest St Patrick's Day celebrations in the world. After a five-year
00:25absence, it returned last year, but organisers say this time the financial and logistical
00:30challenges were too great. Instead, hospitality venues in Digbeth are leading the celebrations
00:36with a 10-day festival. A campaign to support the Irish Quarter's businesses is also being
00:42launched with a printed and digital map, helping visitors find events and venues. While the parade
00:49will not take place, organisers say the Irish community and local businesses are determined
00:54to ensure the spirit of St Patrick's Day remains strong in Birmingham.