St. Patrick's Day in Dublin 2027: dates, parade and tips

Celebrate the Saint Patrick's Day in Dublin, It's about experiencing Ireland's biggest party in its capital: a giant parade, concerts, live music in the pubs, and the entire city decked out in green. We've been organizing trips to Ireland since 2012: here are the 2027 dates, the program, and our tips for making the most of it.

Saint Patrick's Day in Dublin: the 2027 dates

The St. Patrick's Day festival will be held from Saturday, March 13th to Wednesday, March 17th, 2027. The grand parade will depart on Wednesday, March 17th at noon, according to the official website of the St. Patrick's Festival. The full program will then be published in January 2027.

March 17th is a public holiday in Ireland as well as in Northern Ireland. Many offices close, while pubs are packed from the morning.

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Who was Saint Patrick?

Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the 5th century, he was reportedly kidnapped and taken to Ireland as a slave, before escaping and returning to evangelize the island. According to tradition, he used the shamrock to represent the Trinity, hence its symbolism.

March 17th corresponds to the presumed date of his death. Initially a religious holiday, it has thus become, over time, a global celebration of Irish culture.

The grand St. Patrick's Day parade in Dublin

The parade covers approximately 3.2 kilometers. It starts in Parnell Square, goes down O'Connell Street and crosses O'Connell Bridge. Then it travels through the southern part of the city center to the intersection of Cuffe Street and Kevin Street. More than 3,000 participants march with giant floats, marching bands, and street theatre companies.

Access to the course is free. To get a good spot, however, arrive early, ideally around 10 a.m. There are also limited-capacity, paid seats in the stands: they go on sale on September 28, 2026.

What to do in Dublin during St. Patrick's Day?

The concerts and entertainment of the festival

For five days, the festival offers concerts, shows, walks and family activities, many of which are free. The city's major monuments also light up in green at nightfall.

Traditional music in pubs

In the evenings, pubs host Irish music sessions. Temple Bar has the most festive, but also the most crowded, atmosphere. For a more authentic setting, opt for the pubs in Smithfield or the streets around Grafton Street.

Must-see attractions

Take advantage of your stay to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, founded in 1191, Trinity College and its Book of Kells, or the Guinness Storehouse. However, book these visits in advance, as the city is very busy that week. Our itinerary for Visit Dublin in 3 days will help you organize your days.

Our tips for a successful St. Patrick's Day in Dublin

• Book your accommodation several months in advance, as prices rise sharply around March 17th.
• Arrive one or two days before the parade to enjoy the festival without stress.
• Wear a touch of green, a hat or a clover: it's the tradition.
• Pack warm and waterproof clothing, as temperatures are often between 5 and 10°C in March.
• Travel on foot or by tram, as many streets close to traffic on parade day.
• Finally, be careful in the evening, when the streets in the city center become very busy.

Extending St. Patrick's Day beyond Dublin

The festivities are also celebrated elsewhere. In Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, the cathedral houses the supposed tomb of Saint Patrick, and Belfast holds its own parade. To plan your trip from Dublin, read our guide to... train in Ireland, Then discover our ideas for the’Northern Ireland.

You can also take advantage of March to head west. The landscapes there are still peaceful before the season, as our guide shows. when to go to Ireland.

Frequently asked questions about St. Patrick's Day in Dublin

When is St. Patrick's Day in Dublin in 2027?

The festival takes place from March 13 to 17, 2027. The parade takes place on Wednesday, March 17, 2027, starting at noon.

Is the St. Patrick's Day parade free?

Yes, you just need to choose a location along the route. Only the grandstand seats require payment.

How many days should I plan to spend in Dublin for St. Patrick's Day?

Three or four days are enough time to see the parade, a few concerts, and the city's main attractions. Add two days for an excursion.

Should you book your hotel well in advance?

Yes. St. Patrick's Day weekend is one of the most popular of the year in Dublin, and the best accommodations book up quickly.

Go to Dublin for St. Patrick's Day with Brightside Travel

Our team knows Dublin and Ireland well. We can adapt our 3-day stay in Dublin on the dates of the festival, or build with you a tailor-made trip to Ireland.

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