St Patrick's Day
Ireland's national day on 17 March - parades, green everywhere and celebration, marking the patron saint in a festival now shared with the world.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
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.
What you actually see
- 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.
Honest expectations
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.
What to pack for St Patrick's Day
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
