Change of route for St Patrick's Festival parade

IN LIGHT of the devastating fire on Union Street in Glasgow City Centre, the organisers of the Glasgow St Patrick’s Festival Parade 2026 have taken the decision, in consultation with parade participants and statutory partners, to change the planned route for this year’s event.

"We recognise that the recent fire has had a significant impact on the city centre, including ongoing road closures, surrounding road works and substantially increased traffic congestion," festival organisers said. "Out of respect for the seriousness of the incident and the ongoing response and recovery efforts, we believe it would not be appropriate to add the additional pressures that a large-scale parade brings to city centre traffic management at this time.

"For that reason, and following constructive discussions with our partners, we have proposed a revised parade route that avoids the affected area while ensuring the celebration can still go ahead safely and respectfully.

"This year’s festival theme celebrates the history and contribution of Irish immigration to Glasgow and Scotland. It therefore feels particularly fitting that the revised parade will travel through areas strongly associated with Glasgow’s Irish heritage.

"The amended parade will assemble 10:45am at McLellan Arch before leaving at 11:30am from Glasgow Green, proceeding along Saltmarket, London Road, Bain Street, Gallowgate, High Street, George Street, Montrose Street, Ingram Street, Candleriggs and Bell Street, where the parade will disperse at the Family Day celebrations in the Merchant City.

"While the route may have changed, the spirit and purpose of the Glasgow St Patrick’s Festival Parade remain the same: to celebrate Irish culture, community and the enduring connections between Ireland, Glasgow and Scotland.

"We look forward to welcoming participants, especially our visitors travelling all the way from West Donegal, and spectators to join us in celebrating this important part of Glasgow’s shared heritage."

PIC GERARD GOUGH