Saint Patricks Day in Birmingham

Since 1996 Birmingham has celebrated St. Patrick's Day in style, with an internationally recognised parade only surpassed by Dublin and New York in terms of size.

Tens of thousands are expected to line the streets of Digbeth – the heart of Birmingham's Irish community - to watch the procession march from Camp Hill to the Bullring.

This year though, the festivities don't end when the parade crosses the finish line; a range of activities begin at 2pm and BBC WM will be broadcasting live all afternoon from the BBC Bus.

In addition, BBC Birmingham website photographers will be out and about all day – so smile for the camera if you spot them!
Irish Pipes and Drums, Victoria Square

Irish Pipes and Drums
The parade: midday – 2pm

Over the last 14 years, Birmingham's St. Patrick's parade has evolved into into one of the world's leading Irish processions, having been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people.

As is traditional, the 2009 march begins at Camp Hill at midday, travels up to the back of the Bullring and flows back into the heart of Birmingham's Irish community. Digbeth High Street and many surrounding routes will be sealed off.

BBC WM's Bob Brolly will be broadcasting live from Camp Hill from midday – 2pm.