PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya came alive with shades of green on Tuesday afternoon as local officials, Irish residents and tourists joined the St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2026, celebrating Irish culture and community in the seaside city.
The event, held at the central Pattaya Beach activity area, was officially opened at 4:30 p.m. by Poramet Ngampichet, mayor of Pattaya. The parade was organized in collaboration with the Father Ray Foundation and marked the 13th consecutive year the celebration has been held in the resort city.
Participants, many dressed in bright green outfits to mark the Irish national celebration, gathered for the festive procession along Pattaya Beach Road. Among those attending were community leaders, business representatives, government officials and members of the local Irish community, reflecting Pattaya’s multicultural tourism environment.
The parade featured decorated vehicles and lively performances, led by a marching band from the Royal Thai Navy’s Sattahip base, creating a vibrant atmosphere for residents and tourists watching along the beachfront route.
The procession began at the central Pattaya Beach activity area before making its way along Beach Road and concluding at Pattaya City School 8 (Pattayanukul), where entertainment and performances continued for the public.
Celebrated worldwide every March 17, Saint Patrick’s Day honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. According to Irish tradition, Saint Patrick is credited with spreading Christianity across Ireland and famously driving snakes from the island.
City officials said the annual parade not only celebrates Irish heritage but also helps strengthen cooperation between government agencies, businesses and local communities while promoting tourism in Pattaya as a destination capable of hosting diverse international cultural events.
