St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Day Parade  

Attended by tens of thousands, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17 is the festival’s most well-known and beloved event. Kicking off at 12pm on Parnell Street, this colourful procession of eccentric performers, magical floats and joyful bands from all over the world will meander around the city centre bringing the spirit of the festival to life. Ireland You Are is the theme for the 2017 Festival Parade, which will weave its way through the heart of the capital city in a flourish of colour and flair. Marvel as Ireland’s finest street theatre companies swirl by with fantastical pageantry and raucous performances. Bands from Ireland and around the world will deliver uplifting rhythms for the spectacular procession.

St. Patrick's Walking Tour

For history buffs, the In the Footsteps of St. Patrick’s Walking Tour is a must, vividly illustrating the captivating tale of St. Patrick and the Dublin of his time. Not only does the tour encapsulate some of Dublin’s most famous ancient sites including Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, it also shows off a unique and unexplored side of the city that Dubliners seldom see. Tours take place on March 16, 17 (2.15pm only), 18 and 19 at 10.30am and 2.15pm.

Festival Céilí

Join host and Irish-dancing champion Dearbhla Lennon at the Festival Céilí for the best of céilí music and dance. Expert caller Jerry O’Reilly will lead you through céilí classics such as the Siege of Ennis, Shoe the Donkey and the Stack of Barley, demonstrated by the dancers of Brooks Academy, with world-class accompaniment from the Matt Cunningham Band. The Devane Family, musicians and sean-nós dancers from Connemara, will also feature; marvel at this exquisite art form as they showcase their creative footwork.

Festival Ceile image via St. Patrick’s Festival

Spirit of Dublin Craft and Food Fair

Seek out the culinary and design offerings from Irish artisan food and craft producers as they gather at the Teeling Whiskey Distillery to showcase their traditions and wares at the Spirit of Dublin Craft and Food Fair. Enjoy live music and talks throughout the distillery as you meander through this remarkable indoor boutique fair. Guided tours will operate throughout the day on March 18 from 11am to 5pm.

The Children’s Soapbox

Just like the adults, kids get to tell their stories too. The Children’s Soapbox hosted by The Ark Children’s Cultural Centre between 2pm and 4pm on March 18 aims to give children a platform to express their thoughts, opinions and wishes for Ireland. Using a mix of poetry, spoken word, story and music, this delightful event will shed light on the hopes and dreams of Ireland’s youth.

The Children’s Soapbox Image via The Irish Times

Festival Treasure Hunt

If exploration is more your style, then the Festival Treasure Hunt is one event you’ll want to check out. Beginning at 10am on Saturday March 18, this is a fun adventure for all ages. With clues hidden in some of the city’s most striking landmarks and hidden gems, this is an energetic and quirky way to explore the city’s picturesque historical locations.

Festival Treasure Hunt image via St. Patrick’s Festival

The Secret Session

The Secret Session is a true celebration of everything Irish – craft beers, whiskey, artisan food and entertainment. No need to worry about the weather while browsing the stalls as this festival is completely indoors. Enjoy a master-class or two, learn to dance an Irish jig, watch the rugby and soak up the festive atmosphere and live music. Happening at the RDS on March 16 from 5pm to 11.30pm and on March 17 and 18 from 12pm to 11.30pm.

St. Patrick’s Festival 5k Road Race

Fitness fans and fun runners will undoubtedly want to take part in the St. Patrick’s Festival 5k Road Race. Runners will begin and end the race at Stephen’s Green at 12pm on Sunday, March 19, with the course taking them on a trip through the streets of charming Georgian Dublin. Spectators will be entertained by lively street performers, face painters, musicians and much more!

St. Patrick’s Festival 5k Road Race image via Hall.ie

Big Day Out

Closing out the festival is the Big Day Out in Merrion Square. This beautiful Georgian park will be transformed into a lively, whimsical carnival for the whole family to enjoy on March 19. Featuring a mix of bubbly music, enchanting magic shows, and extraordinary theatrics, this raucous event is the perfect way to cap off a magnetic four days of fun, fantasy and festivities!

​Big Day Out image via Dublin Town

• READ MORE Olympia Theatre Dublin: More Than a Stage
• READ MORE The Dublin Theatre Scene
• READ MORE Where was Once Filmed?
• READ MORE Dublin: A City of Villages
• READ MORE Art Galleries in Dublin: Five Not to Miss!
• READ MORE Coastal Towns in Dublin Bay
• READ MORE Dún Laoghaire Dublin: An Itinerary
• READ MORE The 7 Best Open Mic Nights In Dublin
• READ MORE City of Words: Trocadero
• READ MORE Saints & Sinners: A Dublin Guide