Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a public holiday in Ireland that commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The day is celebrated with parades, wearing of green attire, public festivals, and the lifting of Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking.
Table of Events and Parades
| Event Name | Location | Time | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ballinasloe Saint Patrick’s Day Parade | Main Street | 2:00 PM | March 17, 2024 |
| Traditional Irish Music Session | An Tain Bar | 4:00 PM | March 17, 2024 |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Family Fun Fair | Ballinasloe Fair Green | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | March 17, 2024 |
| Irish Dance Performance | Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre | 7:30 PM | March 17, 2024 |
Details of Events and Parades
Ballinasloe Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
The Ballinasloe Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is the highlight of the celebration. The parade starts at 2:00 PM on Main Street and features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups. The vibrant display of Irish culture and community spirit is a sight to behold.
Traditional Irish Music Session
After the parade, head over to An Tain Bar for a Traditional Irish Music Session starting at 4:00 PM. Enjoy the lively tunes of Irish folk music played by local musicians. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Irish culture.
Saint Patrick’s Day Family Fun Fair
For families with children, the Saint Patrick’s Day Family Fun Fair at Ballinasloe Fair Green is a must-visit. The fair runs from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM and offers a variety of games, rides, and food stalls. It’s a fun-filled event that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Irish Dance Performance
End your day with an Irish Dance Performance at Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre at 7:30 PM. Witness the grace and energy of Irish dancers as they perform traditional and contemporary Irish dances.
Specific Places to Visit
- Main Street: The heart of the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration where the parade takes place.
- A Tain Bar: A popular local pub known for its live music sessions.
- Ballinasloe Fair Green: The venue for the Family Fun Fair, it’s a great place for families to enjoy the day.
- Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre: A cultural hub where you can enjoy performances by local artists.
Routes to Take
- Main Street to An Tain Bar: After watching the parade, take a short walk down Main Street to reach An Tain Bar.
- An Tain Bar to Ballinasloe Fair Green: From An Tain Bar, it’s a 10-minute walk to Ballinasloe Fair Green.
- Ballinasloe Fair Green to Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre: End your day with a 15-minute walk from the fair to the theatre.
Restaurants and Pubs
- An Tain Bar: Besides live music, it also offers a great selection of food and drinks.
- The Pillar House Bar & Restaurant: Known for its traditional Irish cuisine.
- Gullane’s Hotel & Conference Centre: Offers a variety of dining options from casual to fine dining.
Entertainment
Besides the events and parades, there are plenty of entertainment options in Ballinasloe. You can explore the local shops, enjoy the lively atmosphere at the pubs, or take a leisurely walk along the River Suck. The town is buzzing with energy and excitement during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Ballinasloe
- Plan Your Day: With so many events happening, it’s best to plan your day in advance.
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear green, the color associated with Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: To get a good spot for the parade, it’s best to arrive early.
- Explore the Town: Take the time to explore Ballinasloe and soak in the festive atmosphere.
- Try Traditional Irish Food: Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Irish food at the local restaurants.
Best Things to Do
- Watch the Parade: The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a must-see. It’s a vibrant display of community spirit and Irish culture.
- Attend the Music Session: Enjoy traditional Irish music at An Tain Bar. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Irish culture.
- Visit the Family Fun Fair: If you’re with family, the Family Fun Fair at Ballinasloe Fair Green is a great place to enjoy games and rides.
- Watch the Irish Dance Performance: End your day with a mesmerizing Irish Dance Performance at Ballinasloe Town Hall Theatre.
- Explore the Town: Take a walk around Ballinasloe and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s a staple of Irish cuisine.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent. It’s often served with butter and jam.
- Colcannon: A traditional Irish dish made with mashed potatoes and kale or cabbage.
Drinks
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream.
- Guinness: A popular Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate, Dublin.
- Irish Whiskey: Try some of the local Irish whiskeys. They’re known for their smooth and light flavor.
Other Details
Remember to check the official websites or contact the organizers for the most accurate information about the events. Also, keep in mind that Saint Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in Ireland, so some shops and services may be closed or have reduced hours.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Ballinasloe offers a unique blend of tradition and fun. From the vibrant parades to the lively music sessions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Irish culture and join in the celebration.
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on the 17th of March every year.
The Ballinasloe Saint Patrick’s Day Parade starts at 2:00 PM.
There are many events to attend, including the parade, music sessions, family fun fair, and dance performance. You can also explore the town, visit local restaurants and pubs, and try traditional Irish food and drinks.