EXCITING workshops, a live concert, a street parade and many more will be happening next month to celebrate the St Patrick’s Festival 2020.
Organised by the Penang Irish Association (PIA), the three-day activity-packed celebration will begin with a cheerful Irish music and dance at Healy Mac’s in Straits Quay on March 5. Visitors will be able to rock the night away with ‘Elvis’ on that evening.
PIA president Maggie Territt said the fun would continue with the 20th St Patrick’s Ball in Penang at E&O Hotel Penang on March 6.
“The black-tie dinner will be packed with entertainment all night long,” she told a press conference at Healy Mac’s in Straits Quay today. Those interested to purchase the ball tickets can contact Territt at 012-4625596.
Territt said that there would be badge and hat-making workshops as well as a cup cake decorating workshop for children from 2pm to 4pm on March 7 in Straits Quay.
“The children can also have their face painted by the talented face-painting artist.
“At about 4.30pm on the same day, we will have the PIA’s 7th St Patrick’s Street Parade with marching bands as well as amazing group performances at the Straits Quay promenade.
“Those who have registered for the Shamrock Fun Run 2020 will have their briefing in front of Straits Quay at 5pm before taking part in the 5km run at 5.30pm.
“The prize presentation ceremony will take place at 6.30pm at the promenade before we begin our live concert.
“The live concert with bands from the Prince of Wales Island International School (POWIIS), Dram Band, Ray Rozells and De Leon Jazz Experience and ‘Elvis’ will continue to entertain the crowd until midnight,” she said.
Territt added that the Irish Ambassador to Malaysia Hilary Reilly would be in Penang for the festival.
Penang Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the St Patrick’s Day is a cultural celebration generally observed by the Irish community.
“The celebration returns for the seventh year in Penang. Visitors must not miss the chance to experience the different cultures that we have in the state.
“The Irish community has contributed to the tourism industry as well as the cultural diversity of Penang. We hope that the festival will be an exciting event for everyone,” he said.
For more details, visit https://penang-irish-association.com/
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad