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.
This day is celebrated in more places around the world than any other national festival, and Inverness is no exception.
Inverness, a city rich in history and culture, offers a unique blend of Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations that combine traditional Irish customs with local Scottish flair.
Table of Events and Parades
Inverness hosts a variety of events and parades to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Patrick’s Day Parade | City Centre | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Irish Music Festival | Eden Court Theatre | March 16-18, 2024 | All Day |
| Family Fun Day | Whin Park | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Traditional Irish Dance Show | Ironworks Venue | March 17, 2024 | 7:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Run | Bught Park | March 17, 2024 | 9:00 AM |
Details of Events and Parades
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a vibrant display of Irish culture and heritage. The parade route winds through the heart of Inverness, featuring a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups dressed in green. Spectators can expect to see traditional Irish dancers, bagpipers, and even leprechauns!
Irish Music Festival
The Irish Music Festival at Eden Court Theatre is a three-day event that showcases the best of Irish music. From traditional folk tunes to contemporary Irish rock, the festival offers something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy performances by local and international artists.
Family Fun Day
Family Fun Day at Whin Park is a great way to spend Saint Patrick’s Day with the family. The park hosts a variety of activities for children, including face painting, games, and a petting zoo. There are also plenty of food and drink stalls serving traditional Irish fare.
Traditional Irish Dance Show
The Traditional Irish Dance Show at Ironworks Venue is a must-see. Talented dancers perform a variety of traditional Irish dances, accompanied by live music. The high-energy performance is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
Saint Patrick’s Day Run
The Saint Patrick’s Day Run at Bught Park is a fun way to celebrate the holiday. Participants can choose to run or walk the course, and everyone is encouraged to wear green. The event is open to all ages and fitness levels.
Specific Places to Visit
- Inverness Castle: This historic castle offers stunning views of the city and the River Ness.
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: Learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
- Eden Court Theatre: Catch a show at this popular venue.
- Inverness Botanic Gardens: Enjoy the beautiful gardens and tropical house.
- Eastgate Shopping Centre: Shop for souvenirs and local goods.
Routes to Take
- River Ness Walk: This scenic route takes you along the River Ness, past Inverness Castle, and through the city center.
- Great Glen Way: For a longer walk, the Great Glen Way offers stunning views of the Highlands.
- Inverness City Tour: This route takes you past many of the city’s main attractions, including the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, Eden Court Theatre, and Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Mustard Seed: This popular restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with local ingredients.
- Rocpool Restaurant: Enjoy fine dining at this award-winning restaurant.
- Hootananny: This lively pub offers live music and a great selection of beers.
- The Castle Tavern: A traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere and a good selection of whiskies.
- Johnny Foxes and The Den: This pub and nightclub is a popular spot for nightlife.
Entertainment
Inverness offers a variety of entertainment options for Saint Patrick’s Day. In addition to the events and parades, there are numerous pubs and clubs where you can enjoy live music and dance the night away. The city’s theatres also offer a variety of shows, from traditional Irish music performances to contemporary plays and concerts.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Inverness
- Wear Green: It’s a tradition to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. Don’t forget to dress in your best green outfit!
- Join the Parade: The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a highlight of the celebrations. Make sure to secure a good spot early to enjoy the parade.
- Try Irish Food and Drinks: Enjoy traditional Irish fare at local restaurants and pubs. Don’t miss out on trying Irish stew, soda bread, or a pint of Guinness.
- Enjoy the Music: Irish music is a big part of the celebration. Attend the Irish Music Festival or enjoy live music at local pubs.
- Participate in Events: From the Family Fun Day to the Saint Patrick’s Day Run, there are events for everyone. Participate and make the most of the celebrations.
Best Things to Do in Inverness
- Visit Historic Sites: Inverness is rich in history. Visit Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and other historic sites.
- Enjoy Nature: Take a walk along the River Ness or visit the Inverness Botanic Gardens.
- Shop Local: Visit the Eastgate Shopping Centre for a variety of shops and local goods.
- Try Local Cuisine: Inverness has a vibrant food scene. Try local dishes at The Mustard Seed or Rocpool Restaurant.
- Experience the Nightlife: Enjoy a night out at Hootananny, The Castle Tavern, or Johnny Foxes and The Den.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Soda Bread: A traditional Irish bread that’s quick and easy to make.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A classic Irish dish, perfect for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with ground meat and topped with mashed potatoes.
- Irish Breakfast: A filling breakfast that includes sausage, bacon, eggs, and black pudding.
Drinks
- Guinness: This dark Irish stout is a Saint Patrick’s Day staple.
- Irish Coffee: A warming drink made with coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream.
- Irish Whiskey: Try a glass of Irish whiskey, neat or on the rocks.
- Baileys Irish Cream: A creamy liqueur that can be enjoyed on its own or in cocktails.
- Green Beer: A fun and festive drink for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Other Details
Remember, Saint Patrick’s Day is not just about wearing green and drinking beer. It’s a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. So, immerse yourself in the music, dance, and traditions of Ireland. And most importantly, have fun!
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Inverness is a celebration like no other. With a variety of events and activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So, put on your best green outfit, join the parade, and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in Inverness!
FAQs
A: Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
A: Wearing green on Saint Patrick’s Day is a tradition that is thought to bring good luck. The color green is also associated with Ireland, known as the “Emerald Isle”.
A: The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Inverness features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups. You can expect to see traditional Irish dancers, bagpipers, and lots of people dressed in green!
A: Traditional Irish food such as Irish stew, soda bread, corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd’s pie are commonly served on Saint Patrick’s Day.
A: Some traditional Irish drinks include Guinness, Irish coffee, Irish whiskey, and Baileys Irish Cream.