Actress Victoria Smurfit has been named Grand Marshal for this year’s National St Patrick’s Day Parade, in Dublin.
Ms Smurfit – renowned for her performances in Ballykissangel, Once Upon a Time, and Disney+’s Rivals, will lead this year’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities through the heart of the city on March 17.
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain said: “The National St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the most significant events in our city’s calendar. It’s an exciting celebration of Irish creativity, culture, and community. As my first St. Patrick’s Festival as Lord Mayor, I’m particularly looking forward to witnessing the vibrant pageantry and incredible talent that will bring Dublin’s streets to life this St. Patrick’s Day. We are also thrilled to have Victoria Smurfit as our Grand Marshal leading this year’s Parade. Victoria is an outstanding choice – she is an incredibly talented Irish performer who has made her mark on a global stage while staying deeply connected to her Irish roots. I look forward to seeing her lead this year’s Parade and I encourage everyone to join us and be part of this unforgettable celebration.”
Newly appointed Grand Marshal, Victoria Smurfit said: “I am absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to be named as this year’s Grand Marshal. I still can’t believe it! I’m so grateful to be part of this incredible celebration, St. Patrick’s Day has always been a special day for me, and to be asked to lead the Parade is truly a dream come true. I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at home and those joining us from around the globe!”
St. Patrick’s Festival CEO, Richard Tierney: “Every year, the National St. Patrick’s Day Parade continues to grow and amaze spectators both at home and abroad, and 2025 will be no exception, with this year’s festivities set to be bigger, better, and taller than ever. Leading the Parade is the incredible Victoria Smurfit, an outstanding Irish actress who has captivated audiences worldwide and brings an infectious energy and passion to this role. We look forward to seeing her lead the Parade and experiencing the incredible talent on display throughout the city on March 17th.”
Ciara Sugrue, Head of Festivals and Events, Fáilte Ireland said: “This year’s festival is set to be the largest ever St. Patrick’s Day celebration. With world-class pageantry and a packed programme of wider festival events, it will give visitors from at home and abroad the opportunity to experience the very best of our capital city. Last year, St. Patrick’s Festival Dublin was worth €110 million to the Irish economy. It is incredibly fitting to have such an esteemed actor as Victoria Smurfit lead this year’s national parade, especially given the remarkable success of Irish film and television talent in recent years. Just like St. Patrick’s Festival itself, many productions filmed here showcase our scenic landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant heritage – helping to remind global audiences that Ireland is a must-visit tourism destination.”
