When in Dublin during St. Patrick's Day, visiting the country's main national holiday celebration is a must! With the widest variety of green-inspired costumes, music, food, and unlimited alcohol, St. Patrick's Festival surely promises a one-of-a-kind experience. The parade and 5K race are the main highlights of the program. But one of the most magical moments comes at dusk, at 6 pm, when central Dublin's buildings get lit up in bright green hues for the night.
St. Patrick's Festival (March 15–18, 2024)
St. Patrick's Festival spans four days in mid-March and features dozens of exciting activities suitable for the whole family. Festival Quarter, which is one of the highlights of the program, runs on the weekends at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks. You can join vibrant Irish festivities from noon through 11 pm. Sunday promises the most outstanding entertainment, including Irish dances by Céilí Mór le Dearbhla Lennon agus Pipers Cross Céilí Band in the afternoon and live music by The Sheela na Gig: Denise Chaila at the nighttime.
St. Patrick's Festival Parade (March 17, 2024)
The National St. Patrick's Festival Parade is one of the most spectacular and the largest event, held within the festival. Vibrant floats, dance troupes, and popular characters fill the streets of Dublin with color and cheer. The parade starts at noon and proceeds from Parnell Street to Kevin Street. The best spots to watch the march include the grandstands at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Parnell Square, Westmoreland Street, and Christchurch.
Street performances
Every year, during St. Patrick's Festival, the city is packed with street performers, who entertain the participants with traditional Irish singing and storytelling. Beyond street performances, St. Patrick's Festival offers pub sessions, concerts, face painting, and an array of kid-friendly activities.
Other things to do on St. Patrick's Day in Dublin
In addition to the iconic St. Patrick's Festival, Dublin hosts plenty of other events, including concerts and diverse exhibitions. Some of the most popular activities likely to complement the festive program in Dublin are Paddy’s Day Leprechaun Hunt, Irish Record Fairs, and Irish Myths & Legends.
Sporting events
Sporty people love to celebrate with the 5K St. Paddy's Day Run or the Family Fun Run and Walk, which are also on Dublin's St. Patrick's Day program in some years. The races take runners through the beautiful Georgian Dublin, bursting into a lively and festive atmosphere.
No matter what option you choose, St. Patrick's in Dublin will become a life-long memory. So, don't hesitate and book your stay right away to save yourself the most convenient bet.
