St. Patrick's Day Events for Families in Ireland 2025

St. Patrick's Day celebrated on the 17th of March, is a festivity rich in history and tradition, particularly in Ireland, where it originated. Initially, a day commemorating St. Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, it has evolved into a showcase of Irish heritage and culture. The day is marked by public parades, festivals, dancing, special foods, and wearing of green attire or shamrocks, reflecting the rebirth and hope that spring brings.

Its appeal as a family holiday stems from the inclusive and joyous atmosphere that surrounds the celebrations. Families, both living in and visiting Ireland, find this day a perfect opportunity to delve into and enjoy the vibrant Irish culture together.

However, if you are looking to go abroad for St. Patrick's Day, here are some of the best family holiday destinations under 3 hours from Ireland.

Saint Patrick's Day Facts

In light of the interest in this day, here are some interesting facts that capture the spirit and history of St. Patrick's Day:

• St. Patrick was not Irish by birth; he was brought to Ireland as a slave from Roman Britain but later returned to Ireland to convert the pagan Irish to Christianity.

• The first St. Patrick's Day parade did not occur in Ireland but in the United States in 1762.

• The shamrock is associated with St. Patrick's Day because St. Patrick is said to have used it to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish.

• Wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is a tradition that is believed to make one invisible to leprechauns, fairy creatures who would pinch anyone they could see (not wearing green).

• There are more people with Irish ancestry in the USA than the population of Ireland itself.

• The shortest St. Patrick's Day parade takes place in Dripsey, Cork, lasting just 100 yards, between the village's two pubs.

• "Happy St. Patrick's Day" in Gaelic is "Lá fhéile Pádraig sona dhuit!"
  
  
• This year’s theme is Eachtraí (Adventures), celebrating the adventurous spirit of Irish people and our "innate ability as a nation to transform fear into courage." 

With these festive facts in mind, let's explore some of the best family-friendly events to attend in Ireland for St. Patrick's Day 2025.

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day Across Ireland's Provinces

Leinster: A Feast of Culture and Joy

Dublin St. Patrick's Festival

• Location: Dublin City Centre
• Date: 15th - 17th March, 2025
• Description: The epicentre of St. Patrick's Day, Dublin's festival is a grand spectacle of parades, music, and street performances that captivate the imagination of all ages.
• Website: Dublin St. Patrick's Festival

For activities in North Dublin with kids, explore this article.

Kilkenny St. Patrick's Festivities

• Location: Kilkenny City
• Date: 14th - 17th March, 2025
• Description: Engage with Kilkenny’s rich medieval history through a vibrant parade, interactive workshops, and live music that showcase the city's cultural heritage.
• Website: Kilkenny St. Patrick's Day

Munster: Traditions and Natural Beauty

Waterford St. Patrick's Day Festival 

• Location: Waterford City
• Date: 14th - 17th March, 2025
• Description: A colourful parade that winds through the ancient streets of Waterford, offering a blend of modern vibrancy and historical charm. Home to the original St. Patricks Day parade in Ireland.
• Website: Waterford St. Patrick's Festival 

Limerick St. Patrick's Festival

• Location: Limerick City
• Date: 15th - 17th March, 2025
• Description: Celebrate with a dynamic parade featuring community groups, bands, and a festive atmosphere that's perfect for family outings.
• Website: Limerick St. Patrick's Festival

Connacht: The Heart of Irish Tradition

Galway St. Patrick's Day Festival

• Location: Galway City
• Date: 15 - 17 March, 2025
• Description: Dive into Galway's community spirit with a parade that celebrates the arts, innovation, and sporting achievements of the West of Ireland.
• Website: Galway Tourism

For family-friendly walks in Galway, check out this article.

Sligo St. Patrick's Day Festival

• Location: Sligo Town
• Date: 15 - 17 March, 2025
• Description: Experience the warmth of Sligo's community in a parade that features local schools, artists, and musicians, highlighting the town's rich cultural tapestry.
• Website: Sligo St. Patrick's Day

Ulster: A Legacy of Historic Celebration

Downpatrick St. Patrick's Day Parade

• Location: Downpatrick, Co. Down
• Date: March 17, 2025 
• Festivities across Downpatrick will run from 12 noon to 4pm
• Description: Immerse yourself in history in the town where St. Patrick is said to be buried. The parade is a vibrant display of local culture and pride.
• Website: Visit Mourne

Derry Spring Carnival

• Location: Derry City
• Date: March 17, 2025 (1pm - 6pm) 
• Parade time: 3pm - 4pm
• Description: Mark the arrival of spring with Derry's carnival; a fusion of St. Patrick's Day celebrations and springtime joy, featuring parades, workshops, and cultural events.
• Website: Derry Strabane Spring Carnival

Have a Joyful St. Patrick's Day Weekend!

St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is a doorway to a world where culture, history, and modern festivity meet. Whether it’s the lively streets of Dublin, the maritime charm of Cork, the cultural tapestry of Galway, or the historical landscapes of county Down, Ireland offers a multitude of ways for families to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Remember, the essence of this day lies not just in the grandeur of parades and festivals but in the shared experiences that bind us in the joy of Ireland’s patron saint and having a bit of craic in the process! 

If you've found this guide helpful, be sure to pass it along to your friends and family so they too can partake in the festivities and create lasting memories together.

For more family adventure ideas and tips, visit our Family Hub. 

Need To Get In Touch

Make sure to check out AIG car insurance, which includes roadside assistance as standard, to ensure that if you break down this holiday, your car is covered. 

Our sales lines will be closed on 17th of March but you can still get an online quote for car insurance and others insurance services from AIG, as well as access your MyAIG / or MyAIG Golfer account 24 hours a day. Our business hours will return to normal on Tuesday 18th March.

From everyone here at AIG Insurance, we want to wish you a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Lá Fhéile Pádraig!