Celebrating the 175th Year of our National Flag
On the 7th of March 1848, Thomas Francis Meagher flew a Tricolour flag at the Wolf Tone Club 33 The Mall, Waterford City, where it flew continuously for eight days and nights before being removed by the authorities.
The Tricolour was presented as a gift in 1848 to Thomas Francis Meagher from a small group of French women sympathetic to the Irish cause was intended to symbolise the inclusion and hoped-for union between Roman Catholics (symbolised by the green colour) and Protestants (symbolised by the orange colour).
The Thomas Francis Meagher 175th Anniversary Tricolour Celebration is a historic event taking place in the city of Waterford, Ireland from March 3rd to March 5th, 2023. This commemoration marks the life and legacy of Thomas Francis Meagher, an Irish American Patriot who played a pivotal role in Ireland’s struggle for independence.
2023 Tricolour Celebration Program
Come celebrate with us for three exciting days as we honour the 175th anniversary of the Irish Tricolour flag and its rich history. Join Patron Dan Mulhall as we celebrate this momentous occasion.
Friday, March 3rd
Thomas Francis Meagher Walking Tour – 6PM
Visit sites associated with the life and career of Thomas Francis Meagher in Waterford starting with his birthplace at the Granville Hotel and concluding at the Sabai Restaurant at 7PM, his home where he was arrested in July 1848.
Saturday, March 4th
Thomas Francis Meagher Public Lectures Series – 10AM – 2PM
A series of talks from our esteemed speakers and guests on the importance of the Tricolour and its impact on the people of Ireland.
Click here to reserve a spot
Thomas Francis Meagher Gala Dinner – 7:30PM
Black Tie Event, Granville Hotel
Sunday, March 5th
Military Parade, Wreath Laying & Flag Raising Ceremony – 11:40AM
Join us for a special event that will feature:
- Display of Irish Military Vehicles
- Parade of Veterans led by a Pipe Band
- Wreath Laying Ceremony
- Thomas Francis Meagher Oration
- Tricolour Flag Raising Celebration
I trust that the old country will not refuse this symbol of a new life from one of her youngest children. I need not explain its meaning. The quick and passionate intellect of the generation now springing into arms will catch it at a glance. The white in the centre signifies a lasting truce between the “orange” and the “green” and I trust that beneath its folds, the hands of the Irish Protestant and the Irish Catholic may be clasped in generous and heroic brotherhood
Tricolour Celebration Map
Discover the Parade and Ceremony route and see a list of participating venues on the interactive map below. Explore the various locations where the festivities will take place and plan your visit accordingly.
Childrens Flag Competition
Are you ready to show off your creativity? Join the Children’s Flag Competition and design the flag of the future! All primary school children in Waterford are welcome to enter. You could win a €30 voucher for the Book Centre and have your artwork shared on social media. Deadline is 16th March 2023, so get designing now!
