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A festival celebrating local communities in Londonderry will come to a close later with a carnival parade in the city.<\/b><\/p>\n
More than 150 events have taken place over the 11 day run of the Derry F\u00e9ile, which organisers say is among the largest community-led festival on the island of Ireland.<\/p>\n
It draws to a close on Saturday with the Our Place, Our People parade celebrating the history and people of the city’s Bogside and Brandywell.<\/p>\n
“Our neighbourhood is a unique place that has been through a lot, but we have an amazing story to tell and no better way to do that than with a colourful celebration,” F\u00e9ile’s Eibhl\u00edn Morrison said.<\/p>\n
She said residents, sports clubs and community groups had spent months helping to create a carnival atmosphere while also reflecting the area’s history.<\/p>\n
The parade, organisers say, starts with the origins of St Colmcille, includes the campaign for civil rights, and celebrates local people including footballer Ryan McBride and Sr Clare Crockett.<\/p>\n
Now in its 34th year, this year’s Derry F\u00e9ile has hosted events in more than 40 venues across the city, including in the Bogside, Brandywell, Bishop Street, Creggan and Fountain areas as well as the city centre.<\/p>\n
F\u00e9ile’s Gareth Stewart said it gave people the chance to “celebrate everything that is great about these neighbourhoods”.<\/p>\n
He said it also encouraged visitors from across the city and beyond to experience the communities for themselves.<\/p>\n
Nicole Connor, who attended the carnival with her children, said the event is great for the community.<\/p>\n
“It’s a nice dry day, and the weans are having a great time,” she said. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n