Dublin’s 2020 St Patrick’s Festival invites the world to discover traditional and contemporary Ireland over five days and nights.

Céilí Mór at Dublin's St Patrick's Festival

It’s almost that time of the year again when the world goes green, glasses are raised and people party in the streets to celebrate St Patrick and all things Irish.

But Dublin’s celebrations go way beyond parties and parades, with 2020 presenting an exciting programme that marries the expected with the unexpected under the festival theme of ‘Treasures’.

Over five days and nights (13–17 March) Dublin will stage a world-class festival of arts and culture that will showcase Ireland’s heritage and tradition alongside a celebration of contemporary Ireland.

The Festival Village will have a line-up of fantastic events and family fun, including circus and science shows, live music, village hall talks, street theatre, Irish and world food stalls and a Céilí Mór – the world’s largest outdoor céilí – where visitors can Irish dance the night away. 

New walking trails that follow the footsteps of emigrants, delve into historic Dublin, celebrate traditional music and uncover the Dublin of St Patrick, invite visitors to see the city through a different lens.

There will also be a music programme featuring everything from experimental electronic music to pop and the very best traditional music. Highlights include A Celtic Collaboration featuring folk award winners Bríghde Chaimbeul and The Breath, and the world premiere of Pomes Penyeach: a musical celebration of Joycean poems performed by Lisa Hannigan.

A range of exciting visual art exhibitions will challenge viewers’ perspectives, and food will feature big in this year’s festival.

A special area in Airfield Estate, Dublin’s urban farm, will be dedicated to the treasures of Irish food, where visitors can enjoy workshops, afternoon tea and fine Irish dining with a bit of storytelling thrown in.

Festival Village Food

Elsewhere, Dublin attraction the Guinness Storehouse will present The Brewer’s Banquet, an evening of great beer and food with a menu that celebrates bold flavours and creativity.

And with more marching bands and floats than ever before, there will be the grand parade on St Patrick’s Day, full of the usual revelry and banter as the streets, pubs and homes of Dublin delight in the city’s heritage. 

Janet Redler, Chief Executive of Janet Redler Travel & Tourism, said: "This year's St Patrick's Festival in Dublin is set to be bigger and better than ever! Wtih everything from Irish music and dance, to arts, theatre, food and more, what better way for visitors to Ireland to immerse themselves in the best of Irish culture?"

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made tour of Ireland, enjoying the delights of this wonderful country and taking in events such as Dublin's St Patrick's Day Festival, please do contact our friendly team today.