The streets have been decorated, the marching bands are tuning up and the incredible custom-built floats have been uncovered in preparation for what promises to be a spectacular Celebration of Irish American Friendship parade in Killarney this Thursday night.

The route will see the colourful pageant departing from Killarney Outlet Centre at 7.00pm and it will wind its way along Fair Hill, College Street, Plunkett Street and Main Street with a designated autism friendly viewing area located close to the start.

It promises to be a magical experience for the several hundred locals and visitors that will line the streets to share in the excitement.

A lively street party will commence immediately afterwards with hugely popular local band Truly Diverse taking centre stage.

There are several other events throughout the course of this Thursday including a fun-filled kids zone in the grounds of St Mary’s Church of Ireland from 3pm to 6pm, a family-friendly drum dance at College Square from 4pm, music on Main Street and a big brass band performance.

And, of course, there will be the eagerly-awaited dramatisation, through music, poetry and song, of the life and times of American entrepreneur and philanthropist John McShain in the Anam Arts and Cultural Centre at 5pm