St Patrick’s Day
Country: Ireland
When: 17th March
St Patrick’s Day is celebrated almost universally around the world. Many places create their own, unique spin on this festive day. However, for the true Saint Pat’s experience you have to attend the day in Dublin in all its glory.
The Dublin festivities run from March 14 to 17 with each day featuring a number of fantastic events. There is always plenty Guinness is available! The festivities culminate on the big day itself, 17th of March, with the People’s Parade and the many, many parties throughout bars, pubs and houses across the city.
You will find that Irish people are really friendly and that the people of Dublin truly make this festival come alive. Their warm and welcoming hospitality give Dublin a distinctive edge when compared to other St Patrick’s Day venues around the world. Everyone will be wearing green and there will be an abundance of three-leaf-clovers. The three-leaf-clover is the symbol of Saint Patrick and said to bring extra luck.
Dublin itself is a historic city and there is plenty to see and do. Make sure you allow sometime to get know this wonderful place.
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Take a walking tour of the city. Dublin has some excellent sights and is steeped in history. There are many tours available and each will showcase the ‘ins and outs’ of Dublin. No matter which tour you take, you will almost certainly end up in Irish pub to quench your thirst after a leisurely two hour walk.
Festival Videos
Key highlights
- The Guinness – and plenty of it.
- Green beer. Yes, the beer is coloured green for the festivities.
- The funfairs, located at Merrion Square West and Custom House Quay, are great and feature roller coasters, rides and ferris wheels.
- Watching the thousands of marchers in the Peoples Parade. The parade starts at Parnell Square, runs along a 2.5 km route and ends at St Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Greening the City – Dublin’s most iconic buildings are washed with green lighting. Start at 4pm and take a walk through the city. This is a fantastic way to end the day’s celebration.
Where is it
Dublin, Republic of Ireland
How to get there
Arrive into Dublin International Airport which is 10 km from Dublin city. Most international airlines offer flights to Dublin. There are also a number of low-cost options available throughout Europe and often plenty of special fares on offer – even around or just before March 17.
You can also catch a ferry from Holyhead, Wales to Dublin Port direct or from Liverpool. Ticket prices start from approximately £75 return. Ferry specials do occur so keep an eye on the local British papers for deals or visit the likes of the P&O Ferries website for cheap offers.
Where to stay
The option to work in Ireland combined with the chance to experience St Patrick’s Day makes Dublin a popular destination for both independent travelers and working holidaymakers – with specific working holiday programs available for people of many nationalities.
There are plenty of hostels and B&B’s in the Temple Bar area of Dublin, This part of the city has plenty of pubs and clubs, is well know for its nightlife and is very popular with backpackers. Staying in this location is advisable if you are in Dublin to party.
If you are looking for more shopping, cafes and restaurants, then check out the City Centre North area near O’Connell Street and Parnell Square. There are some great little venues in this part of town and it also is home to Dublin’s little Italian Quarter. You will also find B&B’s, hotels and hostels to suit all types and budgets.
Useful Information
More information on St Patrick’s Day festival: