St Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and while for some it’s the Irish national holiday of pints and craic, it is also about celebrating community and reigniting our Irishness, with a bit of craic, of course!
This year, across Ireland, families are spoilt for choice when it comes to fun-filled activities that kids and adults can get involved in. With the iconic lively city parades, to interactive storytelling sessions and workshops, there truly is something for everyone, no matter your age.
Whether you’re planning to keep it local this year or want to make a long weekend out of the celebrations, we have rounded up the best family events to help celebrate our national holiday in true Irish style – rainbows, laughter and all!
Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival
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This St. Patrick’s weekend, Dublin is set to be transformed into a magical city of everything Irish from March 15th – 17th.
With their iconic parade taking place on Tuesday, the 17th, it’s one of many events that the whole family can enjoy.
Some of these events include The Cúpla Focal guided tour from EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, an outdoor Céilí Mór that is set to take place on Merrion Square West, where people can gather to celebrate the Irish language, music and dance.
Saturday to Sunday, there will be a family village in Wood Quay hosted by Dublin City Council, where kids can explore fun games and performances while the adults can relax with tea, coffee or some food from vendors.
There is so much more on offer at this three-day festival, so be sure to check out their website and check out their full program of events.
Shamrock and Shenanigans at Bunratty Castle
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Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is back this year with their annual St. Patrick’s family day on March 15th. From dancing leprechaun discos to shamrock face painting, it is set to be a fun weekend in their Irish folk village.
Guests will also get to meet Finegas, the Druid, who will be around the whole weekend, telling Irish fables and legends. Not only that, but Bunratty are offering a full line-up of workshops and demonstrations, including a traditional butter-making class, to embrace our historic roots.
With Irish dancers lining the streets each day, and an interactive clue trail for the whole family, there is something for everyone at this Shamrock and Shenanigans event.
Bray Sham-Rock festival
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Running from March 13th to 18th, Bray will be hosting a six-day-long festival of nonstop Irish fun, that big kids and grown-up kids can enjoy.
Kicking off the festivities is the opening of the funfair, with an air show that evening. Throughout the weekend, there will be a live music session along the sea, with yoga on the beach on Saturday morning, allowing you to relax your mind before a weekend of fun.
Of course, a St Patrick’s Day parade will take place on Tuesday the 17th, with floats and entertainment from local clubs and businesses. Find out more here.
Limerick St. Patrick’s Day Festival
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Limerick city is joining in on the Irish celebrations this year, with their own festival that is set to take over the city. With parades taking place all across the city, there is a post-parade block party at Arthur’s Quay Park that everyone can enjoy, keeping up the St. Paddy’s partying.
Performing at the party is the Irish National Clown Orchestra and Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Company, who will come together to put on this spectacular outdoor performance.
On Monday, the 16th of March, there is a free open-air concert with some incredible performers, allowing you and the family to embrace the Irish weekend for it has to offer.
The Hunt Museum is also running from March 13th – 17th, where they have storytelling sessions, live music and guided tours to help educate us about our past in a fun and family-friendly way. Find out more here.