Dreaming of spending St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland? There’s nowhere better to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s national holiday than on its own turf. The annual festival is a huge deal across the island, with parades, live music, and dancing lighting up almost every corner of the country.
If you’re keen to visit Ireland over St Patrick’s Day for the lively party atmosphere, to soak up the rich culture, or to enjoy a more tranquil traditional celebration, you’ll find a festivity suited to you.
Whether it’s your first St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland or you’re a seasoned regular, we’ve shared the ultimate guide to enjoying the biggest holiday in Ireland.
Table of Contents:
- When is St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
- How is St. Patrick’s Day Celebrated in Ireland?
- What Are the Myths and Legends Behind St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
- Who Was St Patrick?
- What Are the Best Places to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
- Are There St. Patrick’s Day Events in Northern Ireland?
- What Do People Eat on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
- What NOT to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
- Are You Ready to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Irish Way?
- FAQs About St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
When is St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland takes place every year on March 17th. It is a day dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick, and marks the anniversary of his death in 461 AD.
Although St. Patrick’s Day began as a religious feast day, today it has become a global celebration of Irish culture, featuring parades, festivities, and the colour green everywhere you look.
Spending St Patrick’s Day in Ireland offers the perfect way to explore the heart and soul of the country, whether in bustling Dublin or the quiet countryside.
Who Was St Patrick?
St Patrick was a man born around 385 AD in Roman Britain (modern-day Wales or Scotland), with the name of Maewyn Succat (yeah, no offence to his parents, but “St. Maewyn’s Day” just doesn’t have the same ring to it). His father was a Roman official and deacon, but young Maewyn wasn’t particularly religious… yet.
At 16, he was kidnapped by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave. For six years, he worked as a shepherd, and during that time, he turned to prayer and found faith. He later wrote that he prayed 100 times a day!
One night, Patrick had a dream in which God told him to escape. He fled, walking 200 miles to the coast and finding a ship back home. Once there, he trained as a priest in France, later becoming a bishop. Then he had another dream: the Irish people were calling him back.
Despite his years of enslavement, Patrick forgave the Irish and returned, not for revenge, but to bring Christianity to the island. Over the next 30 years, he travelled across Ireland, spreading Christianity and establishing churches, schools, and monasteries. Instead of forcing conversions, he adapted Irish traditions to Christian teachings, making the faith feel familiar and accessible.
How is St. Patrick’s Day Celebrated in Ireland?
- Festive Atmosphere: The day kicks off with excitement in the streets, as both locals and visitors don their green attire and join the celebrations. It’s a lively scene with people gathering for a day of fun and community.
- Parades: Parades are at the heart of the festivities, with colourful floats, traditional Irish dancers, and marching bands filling the streets in cities and towns across the country. It’s a true display of Irish pride.
- Traditional Music and Dance: The sounds of Irish music and lively dancing are everywhere, whether it’s in the streets, pubs, or at local events, there’s a rhythm that carries the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.
- Modern Fun Meets Tradition: In the pubs, you’ll find a mix of traditional Irish music sessions, lively conversations, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to soak in the spirit of the day.
What Are the Myths and Legends Behind St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
St. Patrick’s Day is steeped in Irish folklore, and many myths and legends are tied to the life of St. Patrick and the origins of the holiday. These stories add a touch of magic to the celebrations and are integral to the spirit of the day.
The Legend of the Snakes
One of the most famous legends surrounding St. Patrick is that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. The story goes that during a 40-day fast, St. Patrick was attacked by snakes, and he chased them into the sea. While there is no historical evidence of snakes ever having existed in Ireland, the myth is widely regarded as symbolic. Many believe that the snakes represent pagan religions, which St. Patrick helped to eradicate as he spread Christianity throughout the island.
The Shamrock
The shamrock is more than just a festive emblem worn on St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick is said to have used the three-leaf clover to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit – to the Irish people. Over time, the shamrock became a symbol of Ireland itself, representing faith, hope, and love. And if you’re lucky enough to find a four-leaf clover? That extra leaf stands for luck!
The Leprechaun and the Pot of Gold
The leprechaun, a mischievous fairy, is another iconic figure in Irish folklore associated with St. Patrick’s Day. The story of the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is tied to the leprechaun, who is believed to guard this hidden treasure. While the pot of gold is an elusive and mythical concept, it represents the unattainable, a reminder that sometimes, the journey itself is more valuable than the destination.
What Are the Best Places to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
While Dublin is undoubtedly the heart of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, there are also lots of exciting celebrations taking place in other parts of the country. If you’re looking to experience St. Patrick’s Day with a more laid-back and intimate atmosphere, smaller towns and regions could be the perfect place for you. Check out the best places in Ireland to celebrate St Patrick’s Day below!
Dublin
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin is the largest and most famous in the country, featuring over 4,000 participants and attracting over 500,000 spectators each year. The parade is a dazzling display of Irish culture, with traditional Irish dancers, bands, dazzling floats and street performers marching through the city. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of cultural events across the city, including live music performances, walking tours, and art exhibitions.
You’ll also find lots of live traditional Irish music sessions, known as “trad sessions”, across Dublin on St Patrick’s Day. You’ll also see plenty of planned and impromptu performances of Irish dancing, where skilled dancers showcase the art of Riverdance-style jigs.
Temple Bar is one of the best places to head for a pint of Guinness in Dublin on St Patrick’s Day. While this part of the city is always buzzing, it’s bursting with excitement at this time of year and you’ll hear live music flooding out from every pub.
For a more historical and cultural experience, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church, which honours the country’s patron saint.
Galway
For a more relaxed St Patrick’s celebration in Ireland, head to Galway. The city offers a combination of lively street performances, parades and traditional Irish music. With its rich history and vibrant spirit, Galway provides a perfect setting for those who want to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day without the crowds.
Cork
If you’re going to Ireland over St Patrick’s Day and looking for a lively parade, Cork is a fantastic choice. The parade features colourful floats, live entertainment and marching bands. You’ll find lots of food markets and live music all over the city!
Limerick
Fancy something a little different for your next St Patrick’s Day in Ireland? Limerick hosts an International Band Championship that sees 20-plus marching bands from all over the world coming together to compete. The city also has a colourful St Patrick’s Day Parade with live music, costumes and floats!
Are There St. Patrick’s Day Events in Northern Ireland?
St. Patrick’s Day is also a big day in Northern Ireland. Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, and other towns and cities host their own parades and events, showcasing the island’s shared heritage through street performances, traditional music, and cultural displays.
Northern Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day events are a fantastic way to experience the holiday in a slightly different light. From the lively parades in Belfast to the magical performances in Derry/Londonderry, these events offer a unique perspective on the celebrations. It’s an opportunity to see how both the north and south of Ireland come together to honour their shared culture.
What Do People Eat on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
Food plays a significant role in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. While corned beef and cabbage are traditionally associated with St. Patrick’s Day in the United States, in Ireland, dishes like Irish stew, boxty, and soda bread are staples.
Irish stew, typically made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and root vegetables, is the quintessential Irish dish. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for the chilly March weather. Boxty, a type of potato pancake, is another traditional dish that can be enjoyed during the festivities.
Of course, no celebration would be complete without a glass of Guinness. Whether you’re raising a glass in a cosy pub or at a bustling parade, Guinness has become synonymous with St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland.
What NOT to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
While there’s plenty of fun to be had, some behaviours will make you stick out for all the wrong reasons. Here’s what to avoid:
1. Call It Patty’s Day
We covered this earlier, but it’s worth repeating: Never say Patty’s Day. It’s Paddy or St. Patrick’s Day – no exceptions!
2. Wear Too Much Fake Green Bling
Yes, green is the colour of the day, but avoid dressing like a caricature leprechaun with oversized hats and fake beards. Instead, opt for a classy sprinkle of green in your outfit.
3. Expect Everyone to Drink All Day
While pubs are lively, not all Irish people go on an all-day drinking binge. Many locals treat the holiday as a family-friendly cultural event, attending parades, concerts, and religious services.
4. Order an “Irish Car Bomb” Cocktail
This drink’s name is offensive due to Ireland’s history. Instead, order a Baby Guinness shot or a simple pint of Guinness.
5. Ignore Local Traditions and Customs
Respect Ireland’s cultural heritage: visit historical sites, learn about St. Patrick’s legacy, and appreciate the country’s deep-rooted traditions.
6. Assume St. Patrick’s Day Is Just About Drinking
St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish heritage, not just an excuse for a boozy weekend. Take the opportunity to learn about Irish history, music, and folklore.
Are You Ready to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Irish Way?
St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a holiday in Ireland; it’s a celebration of Irish culture, community, and history. Whether you’re in Dublin for the grand parade, enjoying traditional music in Galway, or savouring hearty Irish stew in a cosy pub, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland offers something for everyone. Join us at Irish Experience Tours for the ultimate way to experience St. Patrick’s Day and celebrate Ireland like a local.
Ready to plan your perfect St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland? Explore our small group and private tours, which take you to Ireland’s most incredible destinations in the company of a local expert. Get in touch and let’s plan your dream St Patrick’s Day in Ireland.
FAQs About St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland
Is St. Patrick’s Day a Public Holiday in Ireland?
Yes, St. Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in Ireland, celebrated on March 17th. It’s a day off for the general population, with schools and businesses closed.
Where Can I Experience St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Ireland?
The best places to experience St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Ireland are Dublin, Galway, Killarney, and Dingle, where parades, music, and traditional Irish festivities fill the streets.
What are the Main Events During the St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin?
The St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin features a grand parade with floats and performers, concerts, walking tours, art exhibitions, and family-friendly events. From vibrant performances to stunning street art, the festival offers an exciting array of activities that showcase the best of Irish culture.
What Foods Are Eaten on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
Traditional foods on St. Patrick’s Day include Irish stew, boxty, soda bread, and corned beef and cabbage. Be sure to wash down your meal with a pint of Guinness or a splash of Irish whiskey.
Is it St Patty’s Day or St Paddy’s Day?
It’s Paddy’s Day, not Patty’s Day. The confusion arises mainly in North America, where some mistakenly shorten St. Patrick’s Day to Patty’s Day. However, in Ireland, this is considered incorrect, as the name Patrick comes from the Irish Pádraig, commonly shortened to Paddy, never Patty.
What Should I Wear on St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland?
Wear green on St Patrick’s Day. It’s a longstanding tradition to don this colour in honour of the country’s flourishing wild spaces. Pack your shamrocks too – they are a symbol associated with St. Patrick himself.
Where Can I Experience St. Patrick’s Day Events in Northern Ireland?
You can experience St. Patrick’s Day events in Northern Ireland in Belfast, Derry and Armagh. Armagh hosts a festival from March 9–17, featuring music, art, theatre, and dance. Belfast celebrates with parades, concerts, cultural events and live traditional music and dance all over the city, and Derry also has a grand parade through the city, which includes live traditional music, food stalls and street entertainment.
You will also find exciting St Patrick’s Day events being held across Northern Ireland’s smaller towns and villages, including Ballycastle, Newry and Downpatrick (where Saint Patrick is said to be buried).
Why Does Everyone Wear Green on St Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day has become associated with green over the years because it reflects Ireland’s lush landscapes and the nickname The Emerald Isle. Plus, legend has it that wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns, who would otherwise pinch anyone they could see! However, St Patrick’s wasn’t always associated with this colour. Early depictions of him show him donning blue robes!
