A RE-ENACTMENT of a 17th- century battle is among the highlights of the Car-Free Parade taking place in Limerick this weekend.
The Patrick Sarsfield Car-Free Parade is part of European Mobility Week 2009, an EU initiative which promotes sustainable travel such as public transport, cycling and walking. It aims to highlight the damaging effect private cars have on human health and the earth’s climate.
In Limerick, local actor Mike Finn will play Patrick Sarsfield.
His band of warriors will reclaim the streets of the city on Saturday afternoon. Limerick City Council is inviting cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy the city centre without fear of traffic or congestion and join in the parade. It starts at 1pm at City Hall, finishing at the Treaty Stone on Clancy’s Strand.
The Living History Company will provide entertainment with a siege of Limerick-themed event, re-enacting 17th-century scenes throughout the afternoon with displays such as surgery, coin-striking and crafts.
The highlight will be a re-enactment of the siege of King John’s castle in the 1690s where historical firearms and a 17th-century cannon will be used. “The parade is not a spectators’ parade, it’s a public involvement parade where everyone takes control of the streets,” said Dermot Winston, executive engineer with Limerick City council.
Mayor of Limerick Cllr Kevin Kiely has also urged locals to get involved.