Let’s face it; when it comes to getting a real taste of Irish hospitality on St. Patrick’s Day, there is no better place on earth to celebrate than the Emerald Isle itself. If you are looking to go green this March, head to Dublin. The popular tourist town features a number of memorable St. Patrick’s Day activities during its week-long festival, including a massive parade complete with theater troupes, artists, puppets, dancers, and marching bands from all over the world. This year the festivities kick off on March 16th and run through March 20th with a complete line-up of events such family-friendly boat races, comedy shows and film screenings.
Another gem of an Irish celebration is the Galway St. Patrick’s Day festival. It is a bit smaller than Dublin’s, but the atmosphere can’t be beat. The charming seaside village is one of the most picturesque places in the country. Don’t miss the annual parade on March 17th, which features a sea of spectators dressed in green from head to toe. The parade includes marching bands, dancers and Irish flag waving pub owners.
If you can’t make it to Ireland for St. Paddy’s Day, then consider traveling to Canada. Montreal is home to the longest running St. Patrick’s Day parade in Canada. This year the festivities take place on March 20th when tens of thousands of spectators will line Fort and Ste-Catherine Streets to see Irish eyes smiling.
Finally, if you really want to make friends and family members green with envy, jet off to sunny Sydney, Australia, for St. Patrick’s Day. On Sunday, March 20th, you can don green sunglasses and a green tank top while soaking up the summer rays during the city’s annual Irish Fest. The fun kicks off with a massive parade which represents all 32 counties. The moving party includes floats, costumed characters, marching bands and Irish dancers.
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