Belfast is gearing up for significant traffic disruptions on St. Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17, 2025, due to a series of events, including the SPAR Craic 10K race and the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. Travelers and locals are urged to plan ahead, as road closures and diversions will affect traffic throughout the day.
Traffic Impact from SPAR Craic 10K Race
The SPAR Craic 10K, organized by Aisling Events, will start at City Hall at 9 a.m. and run until 11 a.m. Participants will race through key areas of Belfast, including Falls Road, Stranmillis Embankment, and Ormeau Road. This event will cause rolling road closures and diversions, especially in the city center, between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Drivers should expect delays in these areas, and traffic diversions will be in place from early morning.
SPAR Craic 10K Race Details:
- Start Time: 9 a.m.
- Route: City Hall, Falls Road, Stranmillis Embankment, Ormeau Road
- End Time: 11 a.m.
- Impact: Delays expected in central Belfast, particularly around major streets.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Causes More Traffic Disruptions
After the 10K race, Belfast’s St. Patrick’s Day parade will begin at 1:30 p.m. from City Hall. The parade will follow a circular route, traveling along Chichester Street, Victoria Street, High Street, Castle Place, and Donegall Place before returning to City Hall. The parade will result in further traffic disruptions, with rolling diversions expected from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Areas surrounding the parade route, including Donegall Square West, College Square East, and several others, will face restricted access.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Details:
- Start Time: 1:30 p.m.
- Route: City Hall, Chichester Street, Victoria Street, High Street, Castle Place, Donegall Place
- Disruptions: 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Impact: Restricted access in areas near the parade route.
Advice for Visitors and Participants
Visitors and those traveling through Belfast on St. Patrick’s Day are encouraged to plan their trips carefully. Arriving early and using public transport is recommended to avoid the disruptions caused by road closures.
- For Visitors: Plan ahead, avoid driving through restricted areas, and use public transport if possible.
- For Participants: Be prepared for road closures and diversions, and consider alternate routes to avoid delays.
Conclusion
As Belfast hosts thousands of visitors for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, traffic disruptions and temporary road closures will be widespread. To make travel easier, it’s essential to plan ahead, use public transportation, and stay updated on the latest information from Translink and local authorities.
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