Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a public holiday in Ireland but is celebrated with much enthusiasm in various parts of the world, including Aberdeen, and Scotland. The day commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
Table of Events and Parades
Here is a comprehensive list of all the events and parades scheduled for Saint Patrick’s Day in Aberdeen 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Union Street | March 17, 2024 | 11:00 AM |
| Celtic Dance Company Performance | His Majesty’s Theatre | March 16-17, 2024 | 6:00 PM |
| Irish Food Festival | Belmont Street | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Pub Crawl | Various Locations | March 17, 2024 | Starts at 8:00 PM |
| Family Fun Day | Duthie Park | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the highlight of the celebration in Aberdeen. The parade starts at 11:00 AM on Union Street. It features a vibrant display of floats, marching bands, and community groups dressed in green, celebrating Irish culture and heritage.
Celtic Dance Company Performance
The Celtic Dance Company Performance is a two-day event held at His Majesty’s Theatre. It showcases traditional Irish dances performed by talented local and international dancers. The performance starts at 6:00 PM and is a treat for dance enthusiasts.
Irish Food Festival
The Irish Food Festival is a must-visit for food lovers. Held on Belmont Street from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the festival offers a variety of traditional Irish dishes. From hearty stews to delicious pastries, there’s something for everyone.
Pub Crawl
The Pub Crawl is an evening event that starts at 8:00 PM. Participants visit various pubs around the city, enjoying a night of fun, music, and camaraderie. It’s a great way to experience the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
Family Fun Day
The Family Fun Day is held at Duthie Park from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. It’s a day filled with fun activities for the whole family, including games, face painting, and live performances.
Specific Places to Visit
- Union Street: The starting point of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Union Street is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
- His Majesty’s Theatre: A historic theatre where the Celtic Dance Company Performance is held.
- Belmont Street: The location of the Irish Food Festival, Belmont Street is known for its lively atmosphere and variety of food stalls.
- Duthie Park: The venue for the Family Fun Day, Duthie Park is a beautiful green space perfect for a day out with the family.
Routes to Take
- Start your day at Union Street to catch the parade.
- From Union Street, head to Belmont Street for the Irish Food Festival.
- In the evening, join the Pub Crawl which starts from Union Street and covers various pubs in the city.
- On the next day, head to His Majesty’s Theatre for the Celtic Dance Company Performance.
- Finish your celebration with a relaxing day at Duthie Park for the Family Fun Day.
Restaurants and Pubs
- McGinty’s Meal An’ Ale: Known for its traditional Irish fare and wide selection of beers.
- The Irish Rover: A popular pub offering live music and a friendly atmosphere.
- The Clover Leaf: A restaurant serving delicious Irish dishes in a cozy setting.
- The Green Man: A pub offering a wide range of beers and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Entertainment
Apart from the parades and events, Aberdeen offers a variety of entertainment options during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. Live music performances are held in various pubs and venues across the city. Street performers add to the festive atmosphere with their acts. Dance performances, especially traditional Irish dances, are a major attraction. For those interested in arts and crafts, various workshops are organized throughout the city.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Aberdeen
- Wear green: It’s a tradition to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. Join in the fun by adding some green to your outfit.
- Arrive early for events: The events can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot.
- Try traditional Irish food: Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Irish dishes at the food festival.
- Join the pub crawl: It’s a fun way to explore the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
- Enjoy the performances: Take time to enjoy the dance and music performances that are a part of the celebration.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a must-do. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and celebrate Irish culture.
- Attend the Celtic Dance Performance: The Celtic Dance Company’s performance is a visual treat. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness traditional Irish dances.
- Visit the Irish Food Festival: The Irish Food Festival on Belmont Street is a food lover’s paradise. Try out the traditional Irish dishes and enjoy the culinary delights.
- Participate in the Pub Crawl: The Pub Crawl is a fun way to explore the city’s nightlife. Visit various pubs, enjoy the music, and make new friends.
- Spend a Day at Duthie Park: The Family Fun Day at Duthie Park is perfect for a relaxing day out with the family. Enjoy the games, live performances, and the beautiful green space.
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 or jam.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A classic Irish dish, corned beef is slow-cooked with cabbage and other vegetables.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake. It’s often served with a side of sour cream.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream.
Drinks
- Guinness: A popular Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate, Dublin.
- Irish Whiskey: Ireland is known for its smooth and triple-distilled whiskey. Try brands like Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore Dew.
- Irish Coffee: A comforting and warming drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a topping of thick cream.
- Baileys Irish Cream: A cream-based liqueur made with Irish whiskey and cream. It’s sweet and creamy, perfect for a dessert drink.
- Green Beer: A fun and festive drink for St. Patrick’s Day, beer is dyed green with food coloring.
Other Details
Remember to respect local customs and traditions while participating in the celebrations. Keep the city clean by disposing of your waste properly. Be mindful of others and ensure that your celebrations do not cause inconvenience to anyone.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Aberdeen is a grand celebration filled with parades, dance performances, food festivals, and much more. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, participating in the festivities is a great way to experience Irish culture and make lasting memories. So wear your best green outfit, join the parade, taste traditional Irish food, and enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Aberdeen 2024!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on the 17th of March every year.
Wearing green on Saint Patrick’s Day is a tradition that is believed to bring good luck. The color green is also associated with Ireland, often referred to as the “Emerald Isle”.
Aberdeen has a good public transportation system. You can use buses, taxis, or even walk to get around the city during the celebrations.
Yes, many events like the Family Fun Day at Duthie Park are designed to be family-friendly. However, some events like the Pub Crawl might be more suitable for adults.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check the official event websites or local tourism information centers.