St. Patricks Day, Ireland’s national day celebrated worldwide is now only 7 weeks away and with the restriction now lifted, plans are afoot to see a full return to parades and celebrations nationwide.
The lifting of all restrictions means full vibrancy can return to Ireland’s many towns and villages as parades bring back the noise and colour celebrated in years gone by. Ireland will also enjoy an extra day of celebrations with the 18th of March now added as a public holiday. If you’re lucky enough to be on Irish shores for this year’s festivities, we guide you through some of the best places to soak up the atmosphere.
The Dublin St. Patrick’s Day parade is a feast for the senses and if you are lucky enough to be at this year’s parade, you will have a ticket to the best show in town. It is an extremely well-organised event (It can take up to 18 months to plan a parade).
The parade has drawn crowds of up to 600,000 in the past and is well represented internationally, with groups travelling from all over the world to take part and tourists who come to watch. It is Dublin’s busiest day in the social calendar with heavy footfall expected. Remember the crowd starts to gather from 9 am for a 12pm start so be sure to get there early and plan your route because there will be road closures/diversions.
If “craic agus ceoil” are up your street then a trip to the Cobbler’s pub in Smithfield, Dublin is a must. “Trad sessions” as they are known in Ireland, consist of traditional Irish musicians gathering for some traditional music and song. Grab yourself a creamy pint of the black stuff and soak up the
atmosphere in one of Ireland’s most renowned venues for trad music where sessions take place 7 days a week.
Cork is Ireland’s second city and is affectionately known as “The real capital” to its proud residents. In the past, it has scaled large scale parades similar to Dublin. The last parade in 2019 attracted over 3,000 community participants including sporting groups, dance schools and even marching bands from the USA. The Parade is led by the Grand Marshal of Cork and has always welcomed involvement from groups Internationally. Cork is also home to the Blarney stone, the world-famous stone you kiss to receive the attractive “gift of the gab”.
Donegal is in the province of Ulster but is the only county in the North of Ireland not within the U.K. It is famous for its wild, rugged beauty and being on the Wild Atlantic Way trail. Enjoy the vibrancy and atmosphere of Letterkenny St. Patrick’s Day parade as it roars back to life. In the evening time, travel to the small Gaeltacht hamlet of Gweedore and visit “Teach Mhicí” or Mickey’s Cottage. Enjoy some delicious food and true Irish hospitality whilst enjoying the venue’s traditional trad music set to play over 4 nights.
Galway is Ireland’s tourism treasure, and its quaint streets are regularly filled with Irish tourists seeking a weekend away. Galway is filled with character and this year will see the return of its much-loved parade. This year’s event promises colour, music, and a celebration of the arts. There will be drummers from Ireland’s spectacle theatre company Macnas, plus a giant flowery owl on display.
Expect a carnival atmosphere and be sure to get a picture of Eyre Square’s fountain as it turns green for the occasion. Family-friendly events and live music are expected to take place at Eyre Square after the parade so be sure to soak up the atmosphere as there will be something for every age.
Off the beaten track…. Connemara in County Galway is one of the few regions of Ireland where native Irish is spoken, making the area a “Gaeltacht”. Historically, it is said that St. Patrick himself once walked these mountains and stopped at an ancient holy well to bless the Irish land. This walking trail is a pilgrimage known as the Mamean walk and includes a small chapel where you can stop
and reflect on its isolated beauty. If you are looking for something a little different away from the hustle and bustle of crowds, a hike through the beautiful Maumturk mountains will bring you close to Ireland’s history.
Unable to travel but want to join in on the (virtual) fun? Keep a close eye on the official parade site https://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/ as they are soon to release their programme of events for St Patrick’s Day. There may well be an online offering for those who want to join any online/virtual event. Last year the website hosted a lively online programme of culture, music, and dance so the
chances are they may roll with some online content this year too.
Wherever you choose to celebrate this Saint Patrick’s Day, raise a glass, and say Slainte!! Be sure to tag @myirishcousin in any celebrations as we would love to see you enjoying this special day.
