Best Cities To Celebrate St Patrick's Day 2024

Looking to make this St. Patrick's Day one for the books? With March 17th fast approaching, it's time to start planning how you’re going to celebrate. But where to go for a top St. Paddy's Day experience? Fear not, we've got you covered.

Here are the top cities where you can immerse yourself in the festive spirit of St. Patrick's Day like never before. Think lively parades, bustling pub scenes and an atmosphere that’s positively electric!

These cities promise an unforgettable celebration that will leave you feeling the luck of the Irish. So, grab your green attire and get ready to paint the town green as we explore the best destinations in the UK and Ireland to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in 2024.

Dublin (DUH!)

Key Info: Sunday 17th March 2024, 12pm, Parnell Square North (start of parade)

Dublin on St Patrick’s Day is not one to be missed - picture shamrock lined streets, the sound of traditional music filling the air and the unmistakable buzz surrounding you in the place considered by many to be the heart and soul of Ireland.

Join half a million spectators who gather to watch the huge annual parade, made up of over 4,000 participants, including marching bands from all over the world.

Home to the iconic Guinness Storehouse and quaint cobblestone streets, Dublin is bursting with charm and character.

Dublin’s St Patrick’s Day parade is simply unbeatable. With colourful floats, marching bands and talented performers, the city is transformed into the ultimate party.

Not to forget the pubs that are bound to be buzzing with life. Be sure to share a pint (or a few) with both locals and fellow partygoers. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!

Belfast

Key Info: Parade starts at 1.30pm on Sunday 17th March at Belfast City Hall.

One of the very best places in the world to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Belfast is going big this year with an extended festival in 2024.

As well as the vibrant St Patrick’s Day parade of costume, music and dance, as a UNESCO City of Music, this year’s celebrations will showcase Belfast’s traditional musical heritage with a Trad Trail, a music weekend in the Cathedral Quarter and headline concerts at Belfast Cathedral, Ulster Hall and The MAC.

London

Key Info: Sunday 17th March 2024, 12pm, Trafalgar Square (start of parade)

It’s no surprise that the UK’s capital pulls out all the stops to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. The tight-knit Irish community proudly showcase their culture and heritage, with lively parades and vibrant street parties - the city offers something for everyone.

The main event is a huge parade that starts in Piccadilly, ending in Trafalgar Square. The whole route of the parade is closed off to normal traffic, and you can expect Irish inspired floats, traditional dancers, waving of Irish flags and loads of people dressed up as leprechauns or wearing green, celebrating!

If the big crowd isn’t something you fancy, be sure to check out local celebrations for a more intimate experience. Some notable Irish pubs include Waxy O’Connor’s (Soho), The Auld Shillelagh (Stoke Newington), The Boot (King’s Cross), and The Cow (Westbourne Park).

Liverpool

Key Info: Sunday 17th March 2024, 12.30pm, St Patrick’s RC Church Toxteth (start of parade)

Dubbed 'the second capital of Ireland', Liverpool transforms into a sea of green on the 17th of March, beckoning everyone to join in the celebration.

St. Patrick's Day holds a special place in the hearts of many in Liverpool, as it's not just a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage, but also a day to honour their own roots. With an estimated three-quarters of Liverpool's population having some Irish ancestry, the city resonates deeply with the celebration.

Prepare to dance to the rhythm of traditional Irish music and raise a glass of Guinness at the city's finest pubs and bars.

Get stuck into the lively street parades, immerse yourself in the endless pints and good vibes. There's certainly no shortage of excitement to be found in Liverpool on St Paddy’s.

Manchester

Key Info: Sunday 17th March 2024, 12pm, Irish World Heritage Centre (start of parade)

Manchester is rich in Irish heritage, and what once started as a small-community driven affair has now blossomed into expansive city-wide celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors annually.

For Manchester's Irish community, St. Patrick’s Day holds immense cultural significance, marking a special time to come together, celebrate, and cherish their Irish roots through music, dance, delicious food, and good drinks.

You can expect green streetlights illuminating the city, local businesses, schools and locals all joining in the community spirt and contributing to the festive atmosphere.

The St Patrick’s Day parade in Manchester bursts with life and vibrance, and includes floats, marching bands, Irish dancers, as well as displays of Irish art and culture.

Be sure to check out some of Manchester’s favourite Irish pubs like O’Shea’s Irish Pub, The English Lounge and Mulligans of Deansgate.

If you're looking to make your money go further this Paddy's Day, make sure to explore the TOTUM membership discounts available here. You can make big savings on National Express coaches, as well as train journeys with your TOTUM membership.