St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin: The ultimate guide.

No one does St. Patrick’s Day like Dublin. Every March, the city throws a street party like no other - full of colour, music, laughter, and, yes, a whole lot of green. As the birthplace of St. Patrick’s Festival, Dublin’s spirit is infectious, pulling visitors from all over the world into the fun.

First time here? Or a seasoned St. Paddy’s pro? Either way, you’re in for something unforgettable. From roaring parades to cosy pub sessions, Dublin has it all. And with two Locke locations - Beckett Locke and Zanzibar Locke - you’ll be staying right in the middle of the magic.

Events in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day.

Here, St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just a day - it’s a full-on festival of music, dance, art and good craic.

The St. Patrick’s Day parade.

The main event. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade winds through the heart of Dublin, filling the streets with marching bands, wild costumes, giant floats, dancers and performers from every corner of the world. The energy is electric, the colours are unreal, and the vibe is pure joy.

It kicks off at Parnell Square and moves through O’Connell Street, Dame Street and past St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Locke tip: Get there early – O’Connell Bridge and College Green offer the best front-row spots.

St. Patrick’s Festival Dublin Ireland.

The celebrations don’t stop at the parade. The city’s St. Patrick’s Festival is a five-day celebration packed with events and experiences - here are our top picks:

Festival Quarter at Collins Barracks.

Food trucks, live music, art, talks, storytelling – it’s all happening.

City illuminations.

Dublin’s landmarks light up green as part of the Global Greening. Snap a few pics after dark.

Traditional music sessions.

Step into a pub in Temple Bar, Smithfield or around town, and you’ll find fiddles, pipes, and a crowd singing along.

Locke tip: Check the festival website ahead of time to lock in any ticketed events.

Things to do in Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day.

Between the parades and pub sessions, there’s loads more to explore.

Tour the Guinness Storehouse.

It’s a must. Get the story behind Ireland’s most iconic drink across seven floors of interactive exhibits, then finish with a fresh pint at the Gravity Bar – where you’ll get killer 360° views over the city.

Find a proper pint.

You haven’t truly done St. Patrick’s Day until you’ve found your perfect pint. A few favourites:

1. The Cobblestone, Smithfield.

Legendary for its live music and Guinness that’s as good as it gets.

2. Grogans, South William Street.

No fuss, no frills – just a classic pint, a toastie, and some top-tier people-watching.

3. The Brazen Head, near the River Liffey.

Oldest pub in Ireland. Still buzzing after 800+ years.

Go Full Culture Mode.

Want to get under the skin of the city? Here’s where to start:

• Catch a jaw-dropping Irish dance show at the Gaiety Theatre.

• Wander through history at St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Dublin Castle.

• Recharge with a stroll through St. Stephen’s Green –  it’s dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for the walk.

Need more inspiration? Explore our full 72 Hours in Dublin guide.

Where to eat on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin.

When it’s time to refuel, Dublin delivers. Here’s where you’ll want to book:

The Woollen Mills.

Location: Ormond Quay Lower, Dublin 1

Right on the Liffey, this buzzing spot dishes up hearty Irish favourites with a twist. Think slow-braised beef stew, fresh fish and chips, and the ultimate Irish breakfast.

Highlight: Their Guinness bread and seafood chowder are the stuff of legend.

The Church Café Bar.

Location: Mary Street, Dublin 1

Eat, drink and soak up history at this stunning 17th-century church turned restaurant. Feast on lamb shank, boxty pancakes, and sip Irish coffee under the soaring stained-glass windows.

Highlight: Come for the food, stay for the live music and dancing.

The Brazen Head.

Location: Bridge Street Lower, Dublin 8

Storytelling, hearty plates and one of the best atmospheres in the city. If walls could talk, these would have a few thousand tales to tell.

Highlight: Order the beef and Guinness stew – it’s a rite of passage.

Hungry for more? These are just a taste of the best restaurants in Dublin!

Where to Stay in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day.

Central is key - and Dublin’s compact layout makes it easy to hop between events, pubs and sights. At Locke, you’re sorted:

Zanzibar Locke, Ha’penny Bridge.

Feel at home at Zanzibar Locke boutique aparthotel in Dublin. Made up of four grand Georgian townhouses, now 160 design-led apartments, each have their own kitchen and living space. A stone’s throw from Ha’penny Bridge and Temple Bar. Georgian elegance, serious style.

Beckett Locke, North Docks.

Beckett Locke is where hotel meets home. For city breaks or longer stays. With family or friends. Our spacious one and two bedroom apartments are designed for seamless living, each with a kitchen and cosy lounge area. Local energy, laid-back feel, still just minutes from the action.

Both offer spacious apartments with kitchens, lounges, and everything you need to recharge after a big day (or night).