St. Patrick’s Day is a worldwide celebration of all things Irish, usually associated with all things alcohol filled, green and buzzing with ceili bands. Therefore it may seem like a day where you have to have a drink in order to enjoy and partake in the celebrations but fear not, writer Katie Gallagher found there are plenty of things to do that isn’t solely based around booze.
No matter where you are in the world there is always a host of activities to attend and enjoy on St. Patricks day with or without a pint of Guinness in hand.
If you aren’t drinking
Find yourself a parade
There are so many parades held around Ireland let alone the rest of the world so pop to the nearest town or better yet, get involved in one of them. Most of them are family friendly events that you definitely don’t need to be drunk to enjoy. The St. Patrick’s Festival Parade in Dublin City is always a major event and this year the theme is Ireland You Are. Expect a bit more hustle and bustle though than some of the smaller parades and try to get there early to get a nice view.
Funfairs & Walking Tours
Another drink free, tamer Paddies day event to enjoy is the City at Play funfairs at Merrion Square and Custom House Quay. A festival favourite, this will brighten up your sober paddies day with the colourful carnival setting and an exciting thrill of the attractions. Alternatively, join in in some of the walks in Dublin City such as ‘In the Footsteps of St. Patrick’ which are led by the renowned Dublin historian and author Pat Liddy.
If you are drinking
If you are drinking, drink and be merry
The party starts early on St. Patrick’s Day and continues on until the early hours, perhaps even the rest of the weekend this year considering it’s falling on a Friday so head to the pub before and after the parades and get yourself a Guinness for the day that’s in it.
Trad sessions
Whether you are home or abroad, in the countryside or in Dublin’s Fair City you will never be far from a ceili and trad session on St. Patrick’s Day. Lap in the traditional music and enjoy a few beers, celebrating your treasured culture in the place and in the company that you love the most. If you are looking for something a more organised head to ‘The Secret Session’ in the RDS for a ‘true celebration of everything Irish’.
Katie Gallagher
