Thursday, March 17, marks St. Patrick's Day, Ireland's cherished national holiday honoring its patron saint. After a two-year pause due to the pandemic, in-person celebrations are back with the inspiring theme of “Connections.” Ireland's festivals burst with traditional music, dance, art, and street theater. For the first time in two years, communities across Ireland and beyond can enjoy live events like Dublin's iconic St. Patrick's Day Festival, the online Green Button Festival, and local gatherings worldwide.
Live parades and festivities return in full force for Ireland's National Day. The St. Patrick's Day Festival in Dublin (March 16–20) promises to be the grandest yet in scale and ambition. Centered on 'Connections,' it unites Irish people globally. Expect more parades, marching bands, and participants than ever at the signature National St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 17, drawing hundreds of thousands. Beyond Dublin, the island hosts widespread festivals, open-air concerts, and activities.
Irish music's power to unite shines through in Tourism Ireland's new online Green Button Festival on March 17. This global event streams live via www.ierland.nl, connecting fans everywhere with authentic Irish sounds from legendary venues.
Experience performances by established stars and emerging talents, including Hothouse Flowers at Dublin's Temple Bar, Clannad and Denise Chaila in County Donegal, Ailbhe Reddy at Dublin Castle, and The Pale from Derry-Londonderry's Tower Museum.
Ryan McMullan performs at Belfast's Oh Yeah Music Centre in the UNESCO City of Music. Join contemporary folk band Kíla, DJ Gemma Bradley, and Riverdance at the Giant's Causeway and Cliffs of Moher.
In the Netherlands, celebrate on Sunday, March 13, at The Hague's Grote Markt with music and dance. The Irish Prison Service Pipe Band flies in for a procession from Grote Markt to O'Casey's Irish pub and back. An 'Ireland tram' adds Irish flair citywide throughout March.
St. Patrick's Day celebrates Ireland's patron saint while highlighting its vibrant culture and heritage.
Authentic traditions include:
– Wearing green and shamrocks as symbols of pride.
– Attending a St. Patrick's Day church service.
– Joining parades or festivals.
– Savoring a classic Irish breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, and soda bread.
– Toasting with Guinness, Irish coffee, or whiskey at the pub.
