If you’re in Dublin during St. Patrick’s Day, you must attend the St. Patrick’s Festival. This iconic celebration is the largest showcase of Irish culture and heritage worldwide. With vibrant green-themed costumes, live music, traditional Irish food, and plenty of festive drinks, it offers an unforgettable experience. The festival transforms the city into a hub of cultural pride, making it the perfect way to immerse yourself in Ireland‘s national holiday.
St. Patrick’s Festival (March 15–17, 2025)
St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin is a three-day celebration in mid-March, packed with activities for all ages. A highlight of the event is the Festival Quarter at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, running from noon to 11 pm on weekends. The festivities include spectacular pageants, lively marching bands from around the world, and participants from across Ireland. The parade and the 5K road race are standout attractions. As evening falls, the city’s charm is heightened with the “greening” of central Dublin, when its iconic buildings glow in vivid green, creating a magical nighttime spectacle.
St. Patrick’s Festival Parade (March 17, 2025)
The National St. Patrick’s Festival Parade is the centerpiece of Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival and is celebrated as the largest and most vibrant event of its kind. The parade brings the streets of Dublin to life with colorful floats, energetic dance troupes, and beloved characters. Spectacular pageants and raucous marching bands from around the globe join community groups from across Ireland to create an atmosphere of joy and unity, filling the city with cheer and cultural pride.
Route
The National St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin kicks off at noon on March 17 in the city center. The vibrant procession begins at Parnell Square on the north side, travels down O’Connell Street, crosses O’Connell Bridge, and weaves through the south side of the city. It concludes at the Cuffe St./Kevin St. junction.
Tickets
No tickets are needed to enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, as it is open to the public along the route. For a premium experience, grandstand seating is available at six prime locations: Parnell Square, Emerald Circle Grandstand on O’Connell Street, Westmoreland Street, Christchurch, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and O’Connell Bridge View—ticket prices for grandstand seating range from €115 to €250.
Street Performances
Every year, during the St. Patrick’s Festival, the city is packed with street performers who entertain participants with traditional Irish singing and storytelling. In addition to street performances, the Festival offers pub sessions, concerts, face painting, and an array of kid-friendly activities.
Other things to do on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin
In addition to the iconic St. Patrick’s Festival, Dublin hosts many other events, including concerts and diverse exhibitions. Some of the most popular activities likely to complement the festive program are the Paddy’s Day Leprechaun Hunt, Irish Record Fairs, and Irish Myths & Legends.
Sport Events
Sporty people love to celebrate with the 5K St. Patrick’s Day Run or the Family Fun Run and Walk, which are also part of Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day program in some years. The races take runners through beautiful Georgian Dublin, bursting into a lively and festive atmosphere.
Practical info
Find hotels and airbnbs near St. Patrick’s Day Festival & Parade (Map)
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