Saint Patrickās Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a public holiday in Ireland.
It commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. The day is marked by public parades, festivals, and the wearing of green attire or accessories.
In Kildare, a county in Ireland, Saint Patrickās Day is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy. This blog post will guide you through the Saint Patrickās Day Celebration in Kildare 2024, providing you with all the necessary information to enjoy this festive day to the fullest.
Table of Events and Parades
Here is a list of some of the events and parades that are scheduled to take place in Kildare on Saint Patrickās Day 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date and Time |
|---|---|---|
| Athyās Parade | Athy, Kildare | March 17, 2024, All Day |
| Newbridge Parade | Newbridge, Kildare | March 17, 2024, All Day |
| Monasterevinās St. Patrickās Day Event | Monasterevin, Kildare | March 17, 2024, All Day |
| Clane Festival | Clane, Kildare | March 17, 2024, 11 am |
| Kilcockās Parade | Kilcock, Kildare | March 17, 2024, All Day |
| Celbridge Parade | Celbridge, Kildare | March 17, 2024, All Day |
| Maynooth Parade | Maynooth, Kildare | March 17, 2024, 1 pm |
| Leixlip Parade | Leixlip, Kildare | March 17, 2024, 1pm |
Specific Places to Visit
While in Kildare for the Saint Patrickās Day celebrations, there are several places that you should consider visiting.
These include the Kildare Village, a unique shopping destination; the Irish National Stud, a horse breeding facility that also houses beautiful gardens; and the Kildare Cathedral, a historic site with stunning architecture.
Routes
The best way to get around Kildare during the Saint Patrickās Day celebrations is by public transport or by car. The main towns where the parades and events are taking place are well-connected by roads and public transport services.
Restaurants and Pubs
Kildare is home to a variety of restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after the parades. Some popular options include Hartes of Kildare, a gastropub known for its delicious food; and The Silken Thomas, a traditional Irish pub.
Entertainment
Apart from the parades and events, there are several other entertainment options in Kildare. You can enjoy live music performances at various venues, visit the local theatres for a play, or explore the nightlife in the towns.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrickās Day in Kildare
- Plan Your Day: Saint Patrickās Day in Kildare is filled with numerous events and parades. Itās essential to plan your day in advance to ensure you donāt miss out on any of the festivities. Check the timings and locations of the parades and events youāre interested in.
- Dress Appropriately: March can still be quite chilly in Ireland, so dress warmly. Also, wearing green is a tradition on Saint Patrickās Day, so donāt forget to pack something green!
- Use Public Transport: The towns in Kildare are well-connected by roads and public transport services. Using public transport or taxis can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you plan on enjoying a pint or two.
- Book in Advance: Saint Patrickās Day is a busy time in Kildare. Itās a good idea to book your accommodation and transport in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Try Local Cuisine: Be sure to try some traditional Irish food and drinks. Kildare has a variety of restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after the parades.
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Saint Patrickās Day is a cultural and religious celebration. Respect the local customs and traditions, and remember that itās all about celebrating Irish culture and heritage.
- Stay Safe: While itās important to have fun, itās also important to stay safe. Keep an eye on your belongings, stay with your group, and donāt drink and drive.
- Enjoy the Festivities: Most importantly, enjoy the festivities and the warm hospitality of the people in Kildare. Whether youāre watching a parade, participating in an event, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, remember to have fun and make the most of the celebrations.
Best Things to Do
While youāre in Kildare for the Saint Patrickās Day celebrations, there are several activities that you shouldnāt miss:
- Join the Parades: Participate in or watch the various parades happening across the towns in Kildare. Each parade is unique and showcases the local community spirit.
- Visit Historic Sites: Kildare is rich in history. Visit the Kildare Cathedral, the Round Tower, or the Irish National Stud to learn more about the countyās past.
- Explore Nature: Kildare is home to beautiful parks and gardens. Spend some time in the Japanese Gardens or take a walk along the Grand Canal Way.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try traditional Irish dishes or enjoy a pint of Guinness at the local pubs and restaurants.
- Shop at Kildare Village: If youāre in the mood for some retail therapy, head to Kildare Village, a chic shopping destination offering premium brands.
Food to Eat
When in Kildare, be sure to try some traditional Irish food. Here are a few recommendations:
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat (usually lamb), potatoes, and onions.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast.
- Colcannon: A dish made from mashed potatoes and kale or cabbage.
- Black and White Pudding: A type of blood sausage commonly served as part of a traditional Irish breakfast.
Drinks
In addition to the ubiquitous Guinness, there are several other drinks you might want to try while in Kildare:
- Irish Whiskey: Ireland is famous for its whiskey. Try a local brand or visit a distillery.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail consisting of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with cream.
- Baileys Irish Cream: A cream-based liqueur made with Irish whiskey and cream.
- Smithwickās: An Irish red ale that is less heavy than a stout like Guinness.
- Bulmers Cider: Also known as Magners outside of Ireland, this is a popular Irish cider.
Other Details
Remember to dress warmly as March can still be quite chilly in Ireland. Wearing green is a tradition on Saint Patrickās Day, so donāt forget to pack something green. Most importantly, enjoy the festivities and the warm hospitality of the people in Kildare.
Conclusion
Saint Patrickās Day in Kildare is a vibrant celebration filled with parades, events, and a strong sense of community.
Whether youāre a local resident or a visitor, participating in the festivities is a wonderful way to experience Irish culture and heritage.
From the lively parades to the delicious food and drink, thereās something for everyone. So, mark your calendar for March 17, 2024, and join in the Saint Patrickās Day Celebration in Kildare!
FAQs
Saint Patrickās Day, or the Feast of Saint Patrick, is a cultural and religious celebration held on 17 March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland.
Saint Patrickās Day in Kildare is marked by several parades and events across the towns. People dress in green, attend the parades, enjoy traditional Irish food and drink, and participate in various activities.
Itās traditional to wear green on Saint Patrickās Day. Also, remember to dress warmly as March can still be quite chilly in Ireland.
Traditional Irish food such as Irish stew, boxty, soda bread, colcannon, and black and white pudding are commonly eaten on Saint Patrickās Day.
The best way to get around Kildare during the Saint Patrickās Day celebrations is by public transport or by car. The main towns where the parades and events are taking place are well-connected by roads and public transport services.
