More than 50 bands put their best foot forward as the annual Cormeen Rising Sons of William St Patrick’s Day Parade was held in Armagh on Tuesday night.

Despite the wet weather making an untimely appearance, it failed to dampen spirits as a large crowd of spectators gathered along the route, with many more watching on from the heat and comfort of their vehicles.

Prior to the parade starting, Killylea-based Cormeen Rising Sons of William vowed that it would be “one of the biggest parades to take place anywhere” on St Patrick’s Day as bands from all over Northern Ireland took part.

Hailing the success of this year’s parade, a spokesperson on Cormeen Rising Sons of William’s Facebook page said: “Band wise, again an amazing showing. Last year was our biggest to date with 50 bands. In 2026.... 52. Its not JUST our biggest, its now firmly established as one of the biggest in the entirety of Northern Ireland!

“Several bands with us for the first time alongside the stalwarts who we can always rely on.”

The band also thanked the PSNI for their assistance and how there were no reports of disruption at the parade.

The post continued: “At the time of writing this however, we believe it to be the smoothest yet, with incidents few and far between and relatively minor (if you experienced anything negative, please get in touch with the band).

“Credit should always be given where it's due, and it has to be said that the PSNI regulated traffic and spectators as well as is possible in the circumstances.”