Every year, London turns a shade greener as it prepares to celebrate one of the most anticipated events on its cultural calendar – St Patrick’s Day.
In 2024, the city is set to host an array of exciting events that promise to make this St Patrick’s Day unforgettable.
From parades and pub crawls to traditional Irish music and dance shows, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a solo traveler, or a family, this guide will help you navigate the best of what London has to offer this St Patrick’s Day.
The Parade: A Spectacle of Irish Culture
One of the highlights of St Patrick’s Day in London is undoubtedly the parade. The St Patrick’s Day London parade route is a riot of color, music, and dance, with floats, marching bands, and community groups all showcasing the vibrancy of Irish culture.
The parade culminates in Trafalgar Square, where the Trafalgar Square St Patrick’s Day festival takes place.
This free event features performances from top Irish artists, traditional Irish food and drink, and activities for children, making it a must-visit for anyone celebrating St Patrick’s Day in London.
Traditional Irish Music and Dance
If you’re a fan of traditional Irish music, you’re in for a treat. Numerous venues across the city host Irish dance shows and live music performances.
From foot-tapping jigs and reels to soulful ballads, these shows are a fantastic way to experience the rich tapestry of Irish music.
And if you’re feeling brave, why not join in a ceilidh – a traditional Irish social gathering involving music and dance?
Pub Crawls and Irish Food
No St Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a visit to a pub, and London’s pubs pull out all the stops on this special day.
Many pubs offer Guinness deals and serve traditional Irish food like corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, and soda bread.
Some even host their own St Patrick’s Day events, including pub quizzes, live music, and even green beer!
Family-Friendly Activities
St Patrick’s Day isn’t just for adults. There are plenty of family-friendly St Patrick’s Day activities in London, from craft workshops and storytelling sessions to face painting and games.
Some venues also offer child-friendly menus, so you can enjoy a family meal out after a day of fun.
Specific Interests: Tailoring Your St Patrick’s Day Experience
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple looking for a romantic day out, or a family with kids, London has a range of St Patrick’s Day activities to suit your interests.
Solo Travelers
For solo travelers, joining a St Patrick’s Day pub crawl is a great way to meet new people and experience the lively atmosphere of London’s pubs.
You could also consider taking a St Patrick’s Day walking tour to learn more about the city’s Irish history and heritage.
Couples
For couples, a St Patrick’s Day boat trip on the River Thames could be a memorable way to celebrate. Enjoy the city’s landmarks lit up in green as you cruise along the river.
Alternatively, why not book a table at one of the best Irish restaurants in London for a romantic St Patrick’s Day meal?
Families
Families can enjoy a range of family-friendly St Patrick’s Day activities. Many of the city’s museums and cultural institutions host special events, from craft workshops to storytelling sessions. The St Patrick’s Day parade is also a hit with kids, thanks to its colorful floats and lively atmosphere.
Food and Drink: A Taste of Ireland in London
St Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to sample traditional Irish food and drink. Many pubs and restaurants offer special menus featuring dishes like Irish stew, soda bread, and corned beef and cabbage. For a sweet treat, look out for soda bread pudding or Irish cream cheesecake.
Budget-Friendly Activities
Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in London doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities to choose from. The parade and festival in Trafalgar Square are free to attend, and many pubs and restaurants offer special deals.
You could also consider visiting one of London’s beautiful parks or taking a self-guided walking tour of the city’s Irish landmarks.
Accessible and Dog-Friendly Activities: Inclusive Celebrations
St Patrick’s Day in London is a celebration for everyone. The city ensures that the festivities are accessible to all, with accessible St Patrick’s Day events taking place across the city.
Wheelchair-accessible venues, sign language interpreters at major events, and clear, well-lit spaces are just some of the measures in place to ensure everyone can join in the fun.
For those who can’t bear to leave their four-legged friends at home, there are even dog-friendly St Patrick’s Day activities.
Many of London’s parks and open spaces welcome dogs, so you can enjoy a St Patrick’s Day picnic or a walk with your furry friend. Some pubs also allow dogs, so you can enjoy a pint of Guinness with your pooch by your side.
Vegan Options: A Plant-Based St Patrick’s Day
St Patrick’s Day isn’t just about corned beef and Guinness. In recent years, there’s been a surge in plant-based options for those celebrating St Patrick’s Day.
Many restaurants and pubs offer vegan St Patrick’s Day food options, from hearty stews to delicious desserts.
So, whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, you won’t miss out on the culinary delights of St Patrick’s Day in London.
Saint Patrick’s Day Parades In London 2024
| Event | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Patrick’s Day Parade | 12:00 pm to 6:00pm | Sunday, 17 March 2024 | Not specified |
| St Patrick’s Day Festival | Trafalgar Square, Westminster, London | Sunday, 17 March 2024 | 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm |
Free Events: Celebrating St Patrick’s Day on a Budget
St Patrick’s Day in London is a city-wide celebration, and you don’t need to spend a penny to join in the fun. There are plenty of free events happening across the city.
The St Patrick’s Day parade is a highlight, with colorful floats, music, and dance filling the streets of London. The Trafalgar Square St Patrick’s Day festival is another free event, featuring performances, food stalls, and activities for all ages.
St Patrick’s Day Near You
No matter where you are in London, you’re sure to find St Patrick’s Day celebrations nearby. Look for things to do in London for St Patrick’s Day to find local events, pub crawls, and special menus. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or in the suburbs, you can join in the St Patrick’s Day fun.
St Patrick’s Day History and Traditions
St Patrick’s Day is more than just a party. It’s a celebration of Irish culture and history. Learn about St Patrick’s Day London history to understand the significance of the day and the traditions that are celebrated.
From the legend of St Patrick to the history of the Irish community in London, there’s a wealth of knowledge to discover.
Dressing for the Occasion
When it comes to St Patrick’s Day, the more green, the better! Look for the best places to wear green in London for St Patrick’s Day to find venues that are hosting costume contests or offering deals for those dressed in green. Don’t forget to wear a shamrock, a symbol of Ireland and St Patrick’s Day.
Learn Irish for St Patrick’s Day
Why not add an extra layer of authenticity to your St Patrick’s Day celebrations by learning some Irish phrases? From simple greetings to traditional toasts, speaking a few words of Irish is a great way to connect with the spirit of the day.
Look for resources online or in your local library to learn the Irish language for St Patrick’s Day.
St Patrick’s Day on a Budget
Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in London doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the day on a budget. Look for free events, take advantage of special deals at pubs and restaurants, or simply enjoy the atmosphere in the city’s parks and squares.
With a bit of planning, you can have a fantastic St Patrick’s Day in London without breaking the bank.
Tickets for the Parade
The St Patrick’s Day parade is one of the highlights of the day, and it’s free to attend. However, if you want a prime viewing spot, it’s worth finding out when tickets for the St Patrick’s Day parade in London are released. Keep an eye on the official website or sign up for updates to make sure you don’t miss out.
Getting to Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is the heart of the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in London, hosting the festival that follows the parade.
Plan your journey in advance to make sure you get there in plenty of time. Look up how to get to Trafalgar Square for St Patrick’s Day London to find the best routes and transport options.
Irish Markets: A Taste of Ireland in London
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the St Patrick’s Day spirit is by visiting one of the many Irish markets that pop up across London. These markets offer a wide range of Irish products, from traditional foods and drinks to crafts and souvenirs.
Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, a tasty treat, or just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, these markets are a must-visit.
Live Music: The Sound of St Patrick’s Day
St Patrick’s Day in London is filled with the sound of music. From traditional Irish tunes to contemporary hits, there’s something for everyone. Look out for live music events happening across the city, from pubs and restaurants to open-air stages.
Whether you want to dance the night away or simply enjoy the music over a pint of Guinness, these events are sure to get you in the St Patrick’s Day spirit.
Best Pubs: Celebrate Like a Local
No St Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a visit to one of London’s many pubs. But with so many to choose from, where should you go?
We’ve compiled a list of the best pubs for St Patrick’s Day in London 2024, taking into account their atmosphere, drink selection, and special events. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Irish pub, a lively sports bar, or a quiet spot to enjoy a pint, we’ve got you covered.
Irish Food: A Culinary Journey
St Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in traditional Irish cuisine. Many of London’s restaurants and pubs offer special menus featuring Irish classics like corned beef, cabbage, and soda bread.
For a truly authentic experience, seek out the best Irish restaurants in London that serve traditional dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
St Patrick’s Day Run: A Healthy Celebration
For those looking to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in a more active way, why not participate in a St Patrick’s Day run? These fun runs are a popular event in London, often featuring participants dressed in green and raising money for charity.
It’s a great way to celebrate St Patrick’s Day while also staying active and giving back to the community.
St Patrick’s Day for All: Inclusive Celebrations
St Patrick’s Day in London is a celebration for everyone. The city ensures that the festivities are accessible to all, with accessible St Patrick’s Day events taking place across the city.
Wheelchair-accessible venues, sign language interpreters at major events, and clear, well-lit spaces are just some of the measures in place to ensure everyone can join in the fun.
Conclusion
St Patrick’s Day in London is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, filled with music, food, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone.
From the lively parade to the traditional Irish music performances, from the delicious food and drink to the inclusive and family-friendly activities, St Patrick’s Day in London offers a unique and memorable experience.
Remember to plan your day in advance to make the most of the celebrations. Check the dates and times of the events you’re interested in, book tickets if necessary, and don’t forget to wear something green!
FAQs
St Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
St Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated on the death date of the most commonly-recognised patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick.
Wearing green, eating green food, and even drinking green beer, is said to commemorate St Patrick’s use of the shamrock – although blue was the original color of his vestments.
The parade usually involves a procession of marching bands, cheerleaders, elaborate floats, and sports clubs, while key landmarks are lit up in green.
Traditional Irish foods include Irish stew (made with lamb, potatoes, and onions), Boxty (potato pancakes), soda bread, and black pudding.
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Great to be with the Irish community in London this week for Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.
— Francie Molloy MP (@FrancieMolloy) March 17, 2022
The two clear messages are;
🗳 Need to extend Presidential voting rights for Irish citizens abroad
⏰ Time to set a date for a referendum on Irish Unity
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/0KGy8LD8xB