The Grand Marshal for Dublin's St. Patrick's Day Parade has been revealed to be Victoria Smurfit.
Late Late Show host Patrick Kielty served as the grand marshal for the 2024 parade.
Around 500,000 spectators are expected to line the streets of Dublin for this year’s event on March 17th.
The Dublin native is renowned for her performances in Ballykissangel, Once Upon a Time, and Disney+’s Rivals.
Most recently, Victoria starred as Maud O’Hara in Rivals, alongside Aidan Turner and David Tennant - a performance that earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at this year’s Irish Film and Television Awards.
"Honoured"
Victoria Smurfit says: “I am absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to be named as this year’s Grand Marshal. I still can't believe it!
"I’m so grateful to be part of this incredible celebration, St. Patrick’s Day has always been a special day for me, and to be asked to lead the Parade is truly a dream come true.
"I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone at home and those joining us from around the globe!"
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain says: "The National St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the most significant events in our city’s calendar. It’s an exciting celebration of Irish creativity, culture, and community.
"As my first St. Patrick’s Festival as Lord Mayor, I’m particularly looking forward to witnessing the vibrant pageantry and incredible talent that will bring Dublin’s streets to life this St. Patrick’s Day.
"We are also thrilled to have Victoria Smurfit as our Grand Marshal leading this year’s Parade. Victoria is an outstanding choice - she is an incredibly talented Irish performer who has made her mark on a global stage while staying deeply connected to her Irish roots."
St. Patrick’s Festival CEO, Richard Tierney, says: "Every year, the National St. Patrick’s Day Parade continues to grow and amaze spectators both at home and abroad, and 2025 will be no exception, with this year’s festivities set to be bigger, better, and taller than ever.
"Leading the Parade is the incredible Victoria Smurfit, an outstanding Irish actress who has captivated audiences worldwide and brings an infectious energy and passion to this role."
The theme of this years’ global celebration of Irish Arts, culture and heritage is Adventures (Eachtraí).
