Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, has become a global phenomenon. It commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. While it originated in Ireland, the celebration has spread worldwide, with Belgium being no exception.
Table of Events and Parades
Belgium hosts a variety of events and parades to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Here is a comprehensive list of the events planned for the 2024 celebration:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brussels Saint Patrick’s Parade | Grand Place, Brussels | March 17, 2024 | 1:00 PM |
| Irish Folk Music Concert | Ancienne Belgique, Brussels | March 17, 2024 | 7:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Run | Cinquantenaire Park, Brussels | March 16, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Irish Film Festival | Flagey, Brussels | March 14-17, 2024 | Various Times |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl | Delirium Café, Brussels | March 17, 2024 | 8:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
Brussels Saint Patrick’s Parade
The Saint Patrick’s Parade in Brussels is the highlight of the celebration. The parade starts at the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and winds its way through the city’s historic streets. Participants dress in green and showcase Irish culture through music, dance, and folklore.
Irish Folk Music Concert
The Irish Folk Music Concert at Ancienne Belgique is a must-see. The concert features traditional Irish music performed by local and international artists. The lively tunes and captivating performances make it a memorable part of the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration.
Saint Patrick’s Day Run
The Saint Patrick’s Day Run at Cinquantenaire Park is a fun event for fitness enthusiasts and families. Participants can choose to run or walk the course, and many dress in green to show their Irish spirit.
Irish Film Festival
The Irish Film Festival at Flagey offers a selection of contemporary and classic Irish films. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about Irish culture and history.
Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
The Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl starts at Delirium Café, known for its extensive beer selection. Participants visit several pubs throughout the night, enjoying Belgian and Irish beers.
Specific Places to Visit
- Grand Place: The starting point of the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Ancienne Belgique: A popular concert venue where the Irish Folk Music Concert takes place.
- Cinquantenaire Park: The location of the Saint Patrick’s Day Run.
- Flagey: The venue for the Irish Film Festival.
- Delirium Café: The starting point of the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl.
Routes to Take
- Follow the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade route to explore the historic streets of Brussels.
- Take the metro to reach Ancienne Belgique, Cinquantenaire Park, and Flagey.
- Join the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl to discover some of the best pubs in Brussels.
Restaurants and Pubs
- Delirium Café: Known for its extensive beer selection.
- Fin de Siècle: A traditional Belgian restaurant near the Grand Place.
- Nüetnigenough: A Brussels brasserie that offers a variety of Belgian dishes and beers.
- Le Roy d’Espagne: A historic pub located on the Grand Place.
- The James Joyce Irish Pub: A popular Irish pub in Brussels.
Entertainment
Belgium’s Saint Patrick’s Day celebration offers a variety of entertainment options. From the lively Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and the captivating Irish Folk Music Concert to the fun-filled Saint Patrick’s Day Run and the insightful Irish Film Festival, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl provides an opportunity to enjoy Belgian and Irish beers while exploring Brussels’ vibrant nightlife.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Belgium
- Wear Green: Embrace the tradition and wear something green.
- Join the Parade: Participate in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade to fully experience the celebration.
- Try Irish Food and Drinks: Visit the recommended restaurants and pubs to try traditional Irish food and drinks.
- Attend the Events: Make sure to attend the various events and parades happening around the city.
- Learn About Irish Culture: Use this opportunity to learn more about Irish culture and history.
Best Things to Do
- Watch the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade: The parade is a spectacle of music, dance, and colorful costumes.
- Attend the Irish Folk Music Concert: Enjoy traditional Irish music performed by talented artists.
- Participate in the Saint Patrick’s Day Run: A fun way to celebrate the day, suitable for all ages.
- Visit the Irish Film Festival: Watch a selection of Irish films to learn more about Irish culture.
- Join the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl: Explore the city’s nightlife and enjoy a variety of beers.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A traditional Irish dish made with meat, potatoes, and onions.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent.
- Colcannon: A traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and kale or cabbage.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Try traditional Irish beers like Guinness or Smithwick’s.
- Irish Whiskey: Sample some fine Irish whiskeys.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail consisting of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with cream.
Other Details
Remember to respect local customs and regulations while participating in the celebrations. Keep in mind that public drinking laws may vary, so it’s important to be aware of the local laws. Also, remember to drink responsibly.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Belgium is a unique blend of Irish tradition and Belgian culture. Whether you’re participating in the parade, attending the music concert, or joining the pub crawl, there’s something for everyone. So wear your best green outfit, immerse yourself in the festive spirit, and enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Belgium 2024!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
Saint Patrick’s Day commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
In Belgium, Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated with a parade, music concerts, a film festival, a pub crawl, and more.
It’s traditional to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Traditional Irish foods include Irish stew, soda bread, colcannon, and boxty. Traditional drinks include Irish beer, Irish whiskey, and Irish coffee.
