Cork Christmas parade goes ahead as council monitors weather closely

Cork City Council says no tidal flooding is expected as organisers confirm the Christmas parade will proceed despite wet conditions

Cork’s annual Corkmas parade will go ahead tonight despite status yellow rain warnings in place for the city and widespread weather alerts across the country.

Cork City Council said it remains in direct contact with Met Éireann regarding conditions in the city centre and, while it will be wet throughout the day and evening, there are currently “no indications of widespread river flooding” and no risk of tidal flooding for the parade route.

The council said the situation is being monitored closely, with any updates to be communicated through official Cork City Council and Corkmas social media channels and local media.

Tonight’s event — the official launch of the Christmas season in Cork — has been in planning for six months.

Organisers said poor weather contingencies are built into all outdoor events but added that postponing or rescheduling is not possible due to the scale of the production and the long-standing commitments of performers.

“Rain doesn’t bother Santa on Christmas Eve and it won’t bother him tonight either,” organisers said, advising attendees to dress for wet weather. 

Those attending have been encouraged to wear raincoats and suitable footwear, while avoiding umbrellas on the parade route to prevent blocking the view.

The parade begins at 7pm, travelling from North Main Street along Washington Street, Patrick Street, Bridge Street and MacCurtain Street, finishing at around 8pm. 

It will include dancers, marching bands and a range of performers.

Road closures and diversions will be in place from 6pm, with motorists advised to expect delays. 

Public transport services will also be affected, while the Black Ash Park and Ride will remain open until 10pm.

Additional congestion is also expected due to a rugby match at Virgin Media Park at 7.30pm.