St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin
Top 5 Things to Do in Dublin During St. Patrick’s Day Weekend
St. Patrick’s Day – celebrated every 17th March in honour of our patron saint – brings the whole city alive with parades, traditional music, folklore, and the kind of festive spirit only Dublin can conjure. From the 14th to the 17th of March 2026, the city will be taken over by the St. Patrick’s Festival. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it, starting with the main event.
1. The National St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Tuesday 17th March · Kicks off at 12 noon
This is it – the highlight of the whole festival and one of the great spectacles of the Irish calendar. Over 3,000 participants take to the streets of Dublin in a world-class celebration of Irish culture, creativity, and community. Expect towering handmade floats, dazzling pageantry, and mesmerising performances that fill the city with colour and sound. Whether it’s your first parade or a beloved annual tradition, the atmosphere is electric – a true bucket-list experience right on our doorstep.
2. Aran Knitting Workshop | 14th & 15th March
A craft rooted in centuries of Irish tradition. The Aran scarf originates from the windswept islands off Ireland’s west coast, where intricate patterns were passed down through generations. This workshop brings that heritage to life, guiding you step by step through the process using genuine Irish wool. No experience necessary – just a willingness to try something truly Irish. You’ll leave with a handcrafted scarf and a story behind every stitch.
3. In the Footsteps of St. Patrick — Guided Tour | 14th – 16th March
Behind every legend lies a story worth knowing. This two-hour guided tour traces the life of Ireland’s patron saint through the history, myths, and folklore that shaped a nation – and the city of Dublin itself. From his earliest days to the traditions that endure to this day, the tour brings the man behind the legend vividly to life. Free entry into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one of Dublin’s most storied landmarks, is included along the way. Two departure times to choose from – 10:30am or 2:15pm.
4. EPIC Museum Festival Weekend Takeover | 14th – 16th March
St. Patrick’s Festival takes over the EPIC Museum for the full festival weekend, filling its halls with live music, performance, and storytelling. Catch sets from St. Pat and Snakey McSnakeface, Sweet Jayne Band, and Dee Armstrong of Kila & Friends, alongside enchanting storytelling from Moth & Butterfly. A wonderful way to experience Irish culture under one roof. Please note that EPIC Museum tickets must be purchased separately to attend the performances.
And while you’re there, don’t miss the giant St. Patrick’s Festival Snake on display – free to see and well worth a look.
5. Céilí Mór | 17th March
No St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Dublin would be complete without traditional Irish dance, and the Céilí Mór delivers it in style. Led by Dearbhla Lennon, former Riverdancer and champion Irish step-dancer, and featuring the award-winning Glór na dTonn Céilí Band from Mayo -winners of the Senior Céilí Band Competition at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 – the standard on show is extraordinary. This free, large-scale outdoor event celebrates the very heart of Irish culture – dance, language, and music – all together in one place, and all in both Irish and English.
The Best Place to End St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin
Ireland’s oldest pub is right in the heart of it all this festival weekend. Whether you’re fueling up before the parade or winding down after a day in the city, we’ve got great food, live traditional music, and the kind of atmosphere you’ll only find at The Brazen Head.