Celebrate St Patricks Day in Ireland

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland: The Ultimate Guide

Are you ready to experience the luck of the Irish on the most iconic day of the year? Look no further! St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and we’ve got the scoop on how to celebrate like a local in the Emerald Isle.

Where to Visit

Dublin

  • Trinity College: Marvel at the stunning Long Room of the Old Library, home to over 200,000 of Trinity College’s oldest and most valuable books.
  • Temple Bar: This lively area is packed with street performers, live music venues, and pubs serving up Guinness and Irish craic.
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Visit the beautiful cathedral where St. Patrick himself was said to have baptized converts.

Beyond Dublin

  • Blarney Castle (Cork): Kiss the famous Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence.
  • Cliffs of Moher (County Clare): Stand in awe of these breathtaking cliffs that inspired scenes from Harry Potter and Star Wars.
  • Ring of Kerry (County Kerry): Take a scenic drive through rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and picturesque villages.

What to Eat

Traditional Irish Fare

  • Irish Stew: Hearty, comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sometimes pearl barley.
  • Colcannon: Mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage, onions, and sometimes ham.
  • Soda Bread: Freshly baked, served with butter or jam.

Modern Twists

  • The Boxty House (Dublin): Try their famous boxty (Irish pancake) with sweet or savory fillings.
  • The Fish Shop (Kinsale, County Cork): Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in this cozy, award-winning eatery.
  • Murphys Ice Cream (Various locations): Indulge in unique flavors like Irish cream liqueur, sea salt, and honeycomb.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly

  • Abraham House (Dublin): Central location, comfy rooms, and a warm welcome.
  • Kinlay Hostel (Galway): Spacious dorms, private rooms, and a lively atmosphere.

Mid-Range Delights

  • The Academy Plaza Hotel (Dublin): Stylish rooms, fitness center, and a relaxing courtyard.
  • The Killarney Park Hotel (Killarney, County Kerry): Elegant accommodations, outdoor pool, and scenic views.

Luxury Treats

  • The Merrion Hotel (Dublin): Opulent decor, fine dining, and exceptional service.
  • Dromoland Castle Hotel (County Clare): Live like royalty in this 16th-century castle with lavish rooms and activities.

Activities & Tips

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

  • Get there early: Secure a good spot along the parade route to catch the colorful floats, marching bands, and street performers.
  • Dress for success: Wear green attire to show your Irish spirit!

Other Fun Activities

  • Guinness Storehouse Tour (Dublin): Learn about Ireland’s iconic stout and enjoy a rooftop pint.
  • Irish Dance Lessons (Various locations): Master traditional steps or modern moves with a local instructor.
  • Pub Crawls: Explore hidden gems, meet new friends, and enjoy live music sessions.

Insider Tips

  • Book accommodations well in advance: St. Patrick’s Day is peak tourist season!
  • Pack layers: March weather can be unpredictable – bring warm clothing and waterproof gear.
  • Learn some Irish phrases: Show respect for the culture and locals will appreciate your efforts!

Conclusion

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like a true Irish reveler! With this guide, you’ll experience the best of Ireland’s cities, landscapes, food, drink, and craic (that’s fun, for non-Irish speakers!). So, don your green attire, grab a pint of Guinness, and get ready to join in the festivities. Sláinte!