All You Need To Know About Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

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Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by sydabroad

If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin in 2025, keep reading!

St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. While celebrating this holiday is fun no matter where you are, there’s something special about joining the festivities in Ireland, the birthplace of St. Patrick’s Day itself. Imagine the energy of Dublin’s streets filled with vibrant green decorations, live music, and the contagious joy that makes this celebration unlike any other.

In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, from where to stay in Dublin to what to expect. Having experienced St. Patrick’s Day here in March of 2022, I’ve put together my top tips and recommendations to help you plan for St. Patrick’s Day 2025. Get ready to experience Ireland’s most iconic holiday in the heart of Dublin!

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This post is all about how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland.

St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin

When is The Celebration? Saint Patrick’s Day in 2025 is celebrated on Monday, March 17th

Although the primary celebration along with the parade is celebrated on Monday, March 17th, 2025, there will be celebrations going on throughout the weekend before. Because St. Patrick’s Day is on a Monday, I suggest going that Friday before and staying until Tuesday. With 4 nights in Dublin, you’ll really get to experience all that this city has to offer.  

I took an overnight flight and arrived in Dublin Wednesday afternoon and stayed through Sunday. Although I would have loved to have more time to see this incredible country, I got a good taste in the short amount of time I had. You really can squeeze a lot into a long weekend in Dublin.

After reading this guide, you definitely need to check out my 3 days in Dublin itinerary to get some ideas for your trip aside from the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration! Read the guide here.

History of St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious identity of Ireland. Originally, this was a holiday commemorating St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, it has evolved over the centuries into a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and heritage. St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century, and his feast day was observed with solemnity and reflection until the 17th century when it became an official Christian holiday.

As Irish immigrants spread across the globe, especially to the United States, the holiday transformed into a lively celebration of all things Irish, featuring parades, music, and festivities. Today, St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin draws millions of visitors each year, showcasing a blend of traditional customs and modern-day celebration.

The Weather in Dublin

Prepare for cold and rainy weather. I got extremely lucky when I went because I did not see rain once, which is very rare for this time of year in Ireland. It was nice and sunny the entire trip but pretty chilly in the mornings and evenings. The temperature in Ireland in March typically falls in the 40s to 50s (Fahrenheit).  

If you need some inspo for what to pack, check out my St. Patrick’s Day packing list guide here and this post is all about what to wear in Dublin, Ireland!

Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland

Find your accommodation asap! Normally I wouldn’t stress too much about finding a place to stay early on, but for St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, yes because everything fills up SO fast and gets extremely expensive. I usually stay in hostels because they are centrally located and affordable, but even the cheapest hostels were well over 100 euros per night for a crappy bunk bed. 

My friend and I ended up staying at Hotel Ibis Dublin and it was perfect for what we needed. We did have to take a taxi or bus into the city center but we had our basic room and the hotel was affordable. Nothing luxurious at all but it did the job! However, I would suggest trying to stay somewhere a bit closer. Here are some hotel recs in Dublin below.

Generator Dublin | For a more budget-friendly option in Dublin, check out the Generator. This hostel is located in one of Dublin’s trendiest areas right next to the Jameson Distillery! It’s a social hostel with a fun vibe. Check availability here.

Number 31 | This hotel is a beautiful Georgian townhouse with a modern twist. Number 31 has an amazing breakfast for guests and is one of the best boutique hotels in Dublin. Check availability here.

The Alex Hotel | The Alex Hotel is a beautiful property in Dublin that was once where a train station used to be. Inside, you’ll find sleek Art Deco fixtures and a lovely co-working space. The rooms are chic and clean, making it a perfect stay in Dublin. Check availability here.

InterContinental Dublin | For those looking for a more luxurious stay in Dublin, consider the InterContinental. They have a beautiful lobby lounge with marble details and crystal chandeliers. This was formerly the Four Seasons, so it’s a top-tier property. Check availability here.

Find a Place to Stay in Dublin

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What to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin

Start The Day With A Traditional Irish Breakfast 

Start St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin by heading to a local cafe in town to grab a warm Irish breakfast. Trust me, you will need a lot of fuel for a long day of drinking and being on your feet. 

We went to Chicobo and the food was delicious. Our taxi driver insisted we start our day at this restaurant with an Irish breakfast and obviously, we couldn’t say no. Make sure you choose somewhere close to the city center so you can walk to the parade afterward.

See the Iconic Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

The Saint Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin might be the number one thing to do in the city. Hundreds and hundreds of people will gather in the streets hours before the parade starts.

So if you want to see the parade, get there early. I recommend watching the parade on O’Connell Street. This was a great area to be in. 

Once we found our spot we went to a nearby cafe to pick up a warm coffee for the long wait. Although It was a long wait (about two hours before the parade started), it was honestly just fun being in the energy of it all and people-watching.

The Saint Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin is on March 17th at about noon. Expect it to last about 2 and a half hours.

Alright, so for the actual parade, it was great to see but if you’ve seen a parade before, you know what to expect. That being said, It really was amazing and I think if it’s your first time in Dublin for Saint Patrick’s Day, I wouldn’t miss it.

But if I were to go back, I probably wouldn’t mind skipping the parade or at least not staying the entire time. Between waiting for it to start and the actual parade, it does take up some time …but you can’t start drinking too early in the day so it’s the perfect activity. 

Looking for some fun photo spots in Dublin? Check out the top Instagrammable places in Dublin here!

Hit Up The Pubs

After the parade, it’s time to hit up the local pubs and drink Guinness! There are seriously pubs on every corner so you will not have a problem trying to find one.

A few of my favorites are the Brazen Head pub, Stag’s Head, and Bad Ass Cafe. Another great spot to find all the local pubs is on Camden Street. I suggest having a few pints of Guinness (because duh, you’re in Ireland) and a baby Guinness shot – they are so good! 

Visit The Temple Bar District

You’ve probably heard of the popular Temple Bar, which is located in the Temple Bar District of Dublin along with many other pubs and restaurants.

This area is cool and worth spending some time but it is very touristy. AKA prices are much higher over here. 

Irish Cuisine for Dinner

After drinking way too many pints of Guinness all day, you should eat a local Irish meal for dinner. There are plenty of places to find local food around the city. While you are in Dublin try soda bread, Irish stew, and Guinness cake at least once! 

Tips for Saint Patrick’s Day in Dublin

Book Accommodation in Advance

Dublin becomes extremely busy during St. Patrick’s Day, with tourists flocking to the city to join in the festivities. Rooms fill up quickly, and prices can skyrocket as the date approaches. To secure a place that fits your budget and preferences, it’s best to book your accommodation as early as possible. Consider staying near the city center for easy access to the main events and celebrations.

Pack for the Rain

Dublin weather can be unpredictable, especially in March. It’s not uncommon to experience rain showers throughout the day, so be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and an umbrella. Quick-drying clothes and water-resistant shoes will keep you comfortable while you enjoy the festivities.

Download the “Free Now” App

Navigating Dublin can be a breeze if you download the “Free Now” app, which provides access to local taxis and rideshares. While Uber is available in Dublin, local services like Free New can be more reliable, especially during busy times like St. Patrick’s Day. On the other hand, public transportation is also an option but be prepared for potential delays due to the crowds.

Get to The City Center Early on St. Patrick’s Day

The streets of Dublin will be packed and road closures are common as the city prepares for the celebrations. Arriving early will not only help you secure a good spot for the parade but also allow you to soak in the festive atmosphere as the city comes alive. You’ll have more opportunities to explore, grab breakfast, and enjoy pre-parade entertainment.

If you are planning to visit the Cliffs of Moher while you are in Ireland, check out all you need to know about a Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin here!

Pack Something Green and Comfy Shoes

Wearing green is a tradition on St. Patrick’s Day, so don’t forget to pack your favorite green items to join in on the celebration! Comfortable shoes are just as important because you’ll be walking a lot. Opt for stylish yet practical footwear that can handle a full day of festivities.

Watch the Parade from O’Connell Street

O’Connell Street is One of the best spots to catch the St Patrick’s Day parade. This area is centrally located and offers a fantastic view of the parade. Arrive early to secure a good spot, as this area tends to fill up quickly. The atmosphere is electric, with crowds cheering and celebrating, making it a memorable place to experience the iconic parade.

Watch Your Belongings Closely

While Dublin is generally safe, the large crowds on St. Patrick’s Day can attract pickpockets. Stay aware and keep your belongings secure. Use a crossbody bag or a money belt to keep your valuables close to you, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Have Cash on Hand

While most places in Dublin accept bank cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially during busy events. ATMs may run out of cash or malfunction. I learned this lesson the hard way when a friend and I found ourselves without cash after an ATM swallowed my card.

St Patrick’s Day Dublin 2025 | FAQs

Is St. Patrick’s Day a Big Deal in Ireland?

Yes, St. Patrick’s Day is a huge celebration in Ireland, and it’s one of the country’s most important national holidays. While people across the world celebrate it (Chicago being an iconic place to celebrate with the Green River), the holiday holds special cultural significance in Ireland, where it originated.

How do You Celebrate St Patricks Day in Ireland?

In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated with parades, festivals, and community gatherings across the country. Many people attend mass in the morning to honor St. Patrick and then watch parades afterward. People will also dress in green with shamrock accessories, and gather with friends and family to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Where is the Best Place to Watch the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin?

The best places to watch the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin are along O’Connell Street and Dame Street.

What Time is St Patrick’s Parade in Dublin?

The parade typically begins around 12:00 PM on March 17th and will last for about two hours.

Check out these five tips on how to pack light and fashionable for Europe!

And that’s a wrap on how to spend St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin. Make sure to check out my full travel guide to Dublin to plan the rest of your trip to Ireland! If spending St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland isn’t already on your bucket list, you need to add it ASAP.

This was seriously one of the most fun weekends of my life. Highly recommend everyone do this trip at least once! As always, if you have any questions, DM me on Instagram, comment below, or email me at sydabroad@gmail.com.

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