Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a significant event in Ireland that commemorates Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of the country.
In Drogheda, a historic town located on the east coast of Ireland, this day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy.
The Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Drogheda 2024 promises to be a grand event filled with parades, music, dance, and a lot of green!
Table of Events and Parades 2024
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2024 | Main Streets of Drogheda | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| St. Patrick’s Day Festival | Various Locations in Drogheda | March 15-18, 2024 | All Day |
| St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Party | Drogheda River | March 17, 2024 | 7:00 PM |
| St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawling | Various Pubs in Drogheda | March 17, 2024 | 9:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2024
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a highlight of the celebration in Drogheda. The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, making their way through the main streets of Drogheda. The parade typically starts at noon and lasts for about two hours.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
The St. Patrick’s Day Festival is a four-day event that takes place at various locations in Drogheda. The festival includes a range of activities such as music performances, dance shows, and cultural exhibitions. The festival is an all-day event, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the festivities.
St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Party
The St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Party is a unique way to celebrate the day. The party takes place on the Drogheda River and includes live music, food, and drinks. The cruise party usually starts in the evening around 7:00 PM and lasts until late at night.
St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawling
The St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawling is an evening event that takes you through various pubs in Drogheda. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local pub culture, try traditional Irish drinks, and enjoy live music. The bar crawling event typically starts around 9:00 PM.
Specific Places to Visit
- St. Peter’s Church: This historic church is a must-visit during your time in Drogheda. It’s especially beautiful during St. Patrick’s Day when it’s lit up in green.
- Millmount Museum and Tower: For a panoramic view of the city, head to Millmount Museum and Tower. The tower is often lit up in green for St. Patrick’s Day.
- Highlanes Gallery: If you’re interested in art, don’t miss out on visiting the Highlanes Gallery. They often have special exhibitions during St. Patrick’s Day.
Routes to Take
- Main Street Route: This route takes you through the main streets of Drogheda where you can see the parade and visit local shops and restaurants.
- River Route: This route takes you along the Drogheda River where you can join the cruise party and enjoy the riverside views.
- Cultural Route: This route takes you to cultural landmarks like St. Peter’s Church and Millmount Museum and Tower.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Grey Goose: Known for its delicious food and cozy atmosphere, The Grey Goose is a great place to dine during St. Patrick’s Day.
- West29 RestoLounge: If you’re looking for a more modern dining experience, West29 RestoLounge offers a fusion of Irish and international cuisine.
- Clarke’s Bar: For a traditional Irish pub experience, head to Clarke’s Bar. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Entertainment
Saint Patrick’s Day in Drogheda is not just about parades and traditional celebrations. It’s also about entertainment.
The city comes alive with music, dance, and performances that cater to all ages and tastes. From traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs to dance performances in the streets, there’s something for everyone.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Drogheda 2024
- Wear Green: This is a must on Saint Patrick’s Day. Whether it’s a green hat, shirt, or accessory, make sure to wear something green.
- Arrive Early for the Parade: The streets can get crowded, so if you want a good spot to watch the parade, make sure to arrive early.
- Try Traditional Irish Food and Drinks: Saint Patrick’s Day is a great opportunity to try traditional Irish dishes and drinks. Don’t miss out on Irish stew, soda bread, or a pint of Guinness.
- Respect the Locals and the Environment: While Saint Patrick’s Day is a day of celebration, it’s important to respect the local community and the environment. Make sure to clean up after yourself and avoid any behavior that could disturb the locals.
Best Things to Do in Drogheda
- Visit the Old Abbey: This historic site is a must-visit when in Drogheda. The Old Abbey, also known as the Magdalene Tower, is one of the last remaining visible structures from the medieval town of Drogheda.
- Explore the Boyne Valley: Just a short drive from Drogheda, the Boyne Valley is home to ancient sites like Newgrange and the Hill of Tara.
- Walk Along the River Boyne: The River Boyne offers beautiful walking paths, perfect for a stroll.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat (usually lamb), potatoes, and carrots. It’s a staple in Irish cuisine and a must-try during your visit.
- Soda Bread: This traditional Irish bread is made with baking soda instead of yeast. It’s often served with butter or used to mop up the delicious juices of an Irish stew.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake. It can be served in various ways – boiled, baked, or fried.
Drinks
- Guinness: No visit to Ireland would be complete without trying a pint of Guinness. This dark stout beer is one of Ireland’s most iconic drinks.
- Irish Whiskey: Ireland is famous for its whiskey. There are several distilleries in and around Drogheda where you can sample and learn about the process of making Irish whiskey.
- Irish Coffee: A comforting drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream.
Other Details
If you’re planning to attend the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Drogheda 2024, here are some additional details to keep in mind:
- Weather: March in Ireland can be quite chilly with occasional rain showers. Make sure to dress warmly and bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella.
- Transportation: Drogheda is well-connected by train and bus services. However, due to the festivities, public transportation can be crowded. Consider walking or cycling to get around the city.
- Accommodation: Drogheda has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Booking your accommodation well in advance is recommended as hotels can fill up quickly during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day is a time of celebration and community in Drogheda. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, participating in the festivities is a wonderful way to experience Irish culture and tradition. From the lively parades to the delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on March 17th.
Saint Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday in Ireland. It commemorates Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland.
You can expect a variety of events including parades, music performances, dance shows, and more. There will also be plenty of traditional Irish food and drinks to enjoy.
Wearing green is a tradition on Saint Patrick’s Day. You can wear a green hat, shirt, or accessory.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official event websites or local news.