THOUSANDS of people thronged the streets on Saturday night in support of Limerick’s first ever Mardi Gras Street Party. The huge turnout filled the Market Quarter and is now set to play a major roll in bringing the fun back into the city. The closed off pedestrianised area included Ellen Street, the area around Smyths Bar /Icon, Flannerys and the Milk Market.
This year’s success will surely guarantee the event will now be included in the city’s summer social calendar. The streets were turned into a pedestrian only zone for the night and drinking from plastic containers only were permitted inside the secure area.
The Carnival Parade brought the true spirit of Mardi Gras through the streets of the Market Quarter and was complemented with the appearance from the award winning LUXe performers from Donegal. Other street entertainment included bands, Dj’s and BBQ’s.
Festival organizer Fearghal Murphy said: “The whole night was fantastic, the glass-free zone allowed people to wander freely around the pedestrianised area and enjoy the event”.
Local businesses in the area were involved in the organisation of the event and were assisted by Limerick City Council, Shannon Development and the Gardaí. The participating venues include The Bailey, Phil Flannery’s Bar, O’Connell’s Bar, The Cuckoo Box, Smyth’s Bar and Icon Nite Club, Flannery’s Bar (Upper Denmark St) Angel Lane Nite Club and Molly’s.
