St Patrick's Day

St Patrick's Day, on 17 March, is the national day of Ireland, honouring the patron saint who brought Christianity to the island. What began as a religious feast has grown into a great festival of parades, music and celebration, with the country and its huge diaspora turning green, and Dublin hosting a multi-day festival at its heart.

Highlights

• The Dublin parade - the great parade through the capital with floats and marching bands.
• Green everywhere - the wearing of green and the greening of landmarks worldwide.
• Music and festival - the multi-day Dublin festival of events.
• Local celebrations - the parades and gatherings in towns across the country.

When to go

17 March and the days around it, the one time it happens; Dublin hosts the biggest celebration, though towns everywhere mark it. Book accommodation ahead, as the city fills.

Things to know

It is a single day and its build-up, so a trip must be timed to it, and Dublin is packed and lively to the point of rowdy. It has become heavily commercialised, at home and especially abroad. The parades and atmosphere are the draw.

Nearby

Dublin hosts the flagship festival; celebrations happen in every Irish town.