Have you ever wondered what makes St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin truly special?
Our vibrant city comes alive with a special type of energy during this festive celebration, offering a mix of rich history and modern traditions.
As you explore the streets filled with lively pubs, music, dance, and joyful crowds, you can’t help but feel the allure of the most famous and iconic Irish holiday.
History of St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin
St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin has a rich history that dates back centuries. The festivities began as a religious feast day in the early 17th century, commemorating the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Over time, the celebration evolved into an exciting cultural event that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Once upon a time St. Patrick’s Day was an occasion marked by attending church services and family gatherings. As the years passed, the festivities grew more elaborate and started incorporating parades, music, nightclubs and dancing. The iconic St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin started in the 18th century and has become one of the city’s most anticipated events.
Traditional Irish Music and Dance
It’s not St Patrick’s Day without some quality Irish music, Immerse yourself in the lively rhythms and melodies of traditional Irish music and dance during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Dublin. As you wander through the streets filled with the sounds of fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns, you can’t help but get in the festive mood. From classic to contemporary, you will find the very best of the Irish music scene in the city.
The Parade Route
As you go through the streets of Dublin during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, the Parade Route and Highlights will guide you towards a display of Irish culture and festivity.
The parade, a central event of the day, typically kicks off at Parnell Square and winds its way through the city centre, passing iconic landmarks such as Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Dublin Castle. Along the route, you’ll witness a range of colourful floats, marching bands, community groups, and performers, all coming together to celebrate Ireland’s patron saint.
This year’s theme is ‘Spréach’ (thats the Irish word for Spark if you didn’t know) and will explore the passion and essence of Ireland. with over 4,000 participants set to be part of the parade its one not to be missed. Grab the official parade route map here.
Best Places to Celebrate
The Whole of Dublin will be banging throughout the festival period, but to get right to the heart of the action (or take a break from it), check out these spots.
Festival Quarter
The National Museum of Ireland at Collin Barracks transforms into the Festival Quarter from March 16th-17th. Here you will find family-friendly events during the day before it changes into a nighttime music hub to keep you dancing throughout the night. Expect workshops, the best of Irish food and much much more. Admission is free during the day but, tickets are required for Saturday night.
Temple Bar District
Feel the pulsating energy: Immerse yourself in the heart of the festivities at Temple Bar, where traditional Irish music, lively dancing, and the cheers of fellow celebrants create an electrifying atmosphere that will make your heart race with excitement. Indulge in the rich culinary delights of Ireland as you sample classic Irish dishes and raise a pint of Guinness to the spirit of St Paddy.
St. Stephen’s Green
Embrace nature’s beauty: Take a serene break from the bustling crowds and relax in the tranquil oasis of St. Stephen’s Green. The lush greenery, colourful spring blooms, and serene swans gliding across the pond provide a peaceful retreat to recharge and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.
Tips for Navigating the Crowds
To make the most of your St. Patrick’s Day experience in Dublin, manoeuvring through the bustling crowds calls for planning and awareness of your surroundings. Start your day early to avoid the peak rush hours. The festivities kick off early in the morning, so consider getting an early start to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and avoid the largest crowds.
If you’re travelling with a group, agree on a meeting point (cough, cough, like Bad Bobs) in case you get separated. With the large crowds and bustling atmosphere, it’s easy to lose track of your companions. Having a designated meeting spot can help reunite everyone quickly if you happen to get separated.
Choose BadBobs to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with.
Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin is a not to be missed experience filled with rich history, traditional music and dance, a vibrant parade, and plenty of opportunities to join in the fun.
We have the perfect venues with outstanding food and drink menus to satisfy everyone’s taste buds on the big day, even the picky ones! Prepare yourself for an epic St. Patrick’s day in Dublin to remember with quality Irish bar food from our restaurant before dancing the night away with a view from our rooftop terrace.
For any further information or enquiries, get in touch with our team who are always happy to help.
Grab your green attire, embrace the Irish spirit, and make the most of this special day in Dublin!