Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day that honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While this day is celebrated in more than just Ireland, it holds a special place in France.
The French have embraced this Irish tradition with open arms, and every year, cities across France come alive with parades, events, and parties to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
Table of Events and Parades
Here is a comprehensive list of the events and parades that will take place in France on Saint Patrick’s Day in 2024.
Please note that the exact dates and times of these events may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the official event websites for the most accurate information.
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Patrick’s Day Parade | Paris | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Irish Music Festival | Lyon | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl | Marseille | March 17, 2024 | 7:00 PM |
| Traditional Irish Dance Show | Bordeaux | March 17, 2024 | 5:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Family Fun Day | Nice | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
Details of Events and Parades
Each event and parade in France on Saint Patrick’s Day has its unique charm and offers a different experience.
The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Paris is a grand spectacle with people dressed in green, marching bands playing traditional Irish music, and floats decorated with Irish symbols.
The Irish Music Festival in Lyon is a treat for music lovers, featuring performances by renowned Irish musicians.
Specific Places to Visit
- The Irish Cultural Centre in Paris: This is the hub of Irish culture in France and hosts several events for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- The English Pub in Lyon: Known for its Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, this pub offers a truly Irish experience.
- The Old Port of Marseille: Many pubs and restaurants here participate in the Saint Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl.
- The Bordeaux Irish Dance School: This is where the Traditional Irish Dance Show takes place.
- The Nice Carnival: This is a great place to enjoy the Family Fun Day.
Routes to Take
- In Paris, start at the Irish Cultural Centre and follow the parade route to the city center.
- In Lyon, take the metro to the English Pub and then explore the nearby areas.
- In Marseille, start at the Old Port and follow the pub crawl route.
- In Bordeaux, take a tram to the Irish Dance School.
- In Nice, take a bus to the Carnival.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Irish Times Pub in Paris: Known for its Irish stew and Guinness beer.
- The Elephant and Castle in Lyon: Offers a variety of Irish dishes.
- The Shamrock in Marseille: Famous for its Irish coffee.
- The Connemara Irish Pub in Bordeaux: Known for its live music and Irish ambiance.
- Ma Nolan’s in Nice: Offers traditional Irish food and drinks.
Entertainment
Saint Patrick’s Day in France is filled with entertainment. From live music and dance performances at the Irish Music Festival and the Traditional Irish Dance Show, to the fun and excitement of the pub crawl and the family fun day, there’s something for everyone.
Many pubs and restaurants also offer live music and special menus for the occasion.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear green: This is a tradition on Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Try Irish food and drinks: Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Irish dishes and drinks.
- Participate in the events: Join the parade, attend the music festival, or participate in the pub crawl.
- Learn about Irish culture: Use this opportunity to learn more about Irish culture and traditions.
- Have fun: Most importantly, enjoy the celebrations!
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in the Saint Patrick’s Day parade is a must. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
- Attend the Irish Music Festival: Enjoy traditional Irish music and dance performances.
- Participate in the Pub Crawl: Explore the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
- Visit the Irish Cultural Centre: Learn more about Irish culture and history.
- Enjoy Irish Cuisine: Try traditional Irish dishes and drinks at local restaurants and pubs.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A classic Irish dish, perfect for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with minced meat and mashed potatoes.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake.
Drinks
- Guinness: This famous Irish stout is a Saint Patrick’s Day staple.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream.
- Bailey’s Irish Cream: A cream-based liqueur made with Irish whiskey.
- Jameson Irish Whiskey: One of the best-selling Irish whiskeys in the world.
- Smithwick’s: An Irish red ale that is a popular choice on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Other Details
Remember, Saint Patrick’s Day is not just about the parades and parties. It’s a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.
So, take the time to learn about the history of Saint Patrick, the significance of the shamrock, and the story behind the leprechaun. And don’t forget to wear green!
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in France is a celebration like no other. Whether you’re joining the parade in Paris, attending the music festival in Lyon, participating in the pub crawl in Marseille, watching the dance show in Bordeaux, or enjoying the family fun day in Nice, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
So, mark your calendar for March 17, 2024, and get ready to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day, French style!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious celebration held on March 17, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated in France with parades, music festivals, pub crawls, dance shows, and family fun days. Many restaurants and pubs also offer special menus for the occasion.
It’s traditional to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day.
Some traditional Irish dishes include Irish stew, soda bread, corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and boxty. Traditional drinks include Guinness, Irish coffee, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Jameson Irish Whiskey, and Smithwick’s.
The Irish Cultural Centre in Paris is a great place to learn about Irish culture and history.