Perform in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day

Marching bands – it’s your lucky day!  St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is back.  Fáilte Ireland has confirmed that “planning is currently in full swing for a spectacular Parade in 2022 which will signal the full reopening of Ireland to the world.”  If you’ve been waiting to perform in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day, now is the time to plan for 2023!

Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day

Lush green landscape and the strains of the bagpipes beckon you to share in the Irish revelry of St. Patrick’s Day.  Bands from around the world come together to blend with the sounds of an already spectacular celebration.

If you’re thinking about an international trip for your band, you really can’t do better than Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day!

St. Patrick’s Festival in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Day became an officially recognized holiday in 1901, but it wasn’t until 1995 that it became a government-sponsored festival.  Dublin plays host to scores of bands, performing groups, community groups, and more who descend on the city to mark Ireland’s national holiday.   It typically lasts 3-4 days and the parade always takes place on March 17^th. 

About the Parade

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is THE highlight of the festival and a spectacle to behold!  Festivities kick off at 11:00 am at the northern edge of Parnell Square and the parade gets under its raucous way at 12:00 noon.  It winds through the streets of Dublin, spreading its unique brand of magic and joy to all until wrapping up at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Many bands from the United States make the St. Patrick’s Day Parade a “must-have” pin in their marching repertoire.  Each is sure to be featured on the parade broadcast seen around the world.  It’s an incredible performance experience and a lifelong memory!

While 2022 spots are already filled, applications are open for 2023 and beyond. Now is the time to submit yours for review.

Other Parade and Performance Experiences in Ireland

Dublin isn’t the only way to experience Ireland at its finest.  There are regional parades and celebrations throughout the country ready to host your band.

Limerick International Band Championship

Outside of Dublin, Limerick hosts the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Ireland.  It’s also the ONLY international band championship in the country!

Marching bands from across Ireland, Europe, and America make their way down O’Connell Street past the judges and thousands of spectators.  You can choose to take part in adjudication, or just enjoy the experience of performing in an Irish parade.

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Cork

Try going green in the city of Cork, which spotlighted more than 40 buildings in green on St. Patrick’s Day, 2021.

It’s that kind of quirky fun that makes Cork a fantastic experience for students.  March in a float-filled parade that winds past nearly 60,000 spectators during Cork’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival.  Then check out the castles, cathedrals, music, and traditions that are distinctly Cork!

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Take Your Band to Perform in Ireland for St. Patrick’s Day

There are so many beautiful and exciting things to see and do in this magnificent place!  Plan stops in Galway, Belfast, Derry, Kilkenny, and Waterford to fully embrace all that Ireland has to offer.

Regardless of where you land, your band is in IRELAND FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY!!  The international audience, rich culture, fabulous food, beautiful backdrops, and music at the core of all the excitement…

How could you possibly get luckier than that? 

PLAN YOUR BAND’S TRIP TO IRELAND WITH OUR IN-HOUSE EXPERT ON ALL THINGS IRISH – KEITH KELLY