Got the green geansaí ready for action?

St. Paddy’s Day is looming, and we are fully ready for the first big outdoorsy outing of 2025, whatever the weather might hold.

Grand Marshals for the parade this year are The Kabin Studio (garnering billions of online streams, the group’s track The Spark was long-listed for a Grammy and nominated for the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Song of the Year so they’re worth celebrating).

Meanwhile, Cork City Council’s St. Patrick’s Festival will take place from March 14th to March 17th in the run-up to the big day, with a decent programme of music, dance and cultural activities culminating in the St Patrick’s Day Parade.

Here’s the lowdown on how to enjoy the festivities.

The Main Event: Parade Time!

• When: Monday, March 17th, 1pm sharp. If you have kids in tow, get there 30 minutes early to find a decent viewing point.
• Where: The tried-and-true route, from South Mall to Merchants Quay. You know the drill.
• What: Expect a glorious explosion of 2,500+ participants, art installations from Cork Community Artlink and Spraoi, as well as floats and marching bands from near and far.
• The Vibe: “Building A Better World – Celebrating the UN International Year of Co-operatives.” So, expect some wholesome vibes alongside the general mayhem.

Beyond the Parade: Your Festival Guide

• Friday, March 14th: Night Market & Coffee House Lates.
  • Cornmarket Street is transforming into a Night Market. Food, crafts, entertainment? Yes, please.
  • Coffee shops are staying up late! Expect coffee mocktails, comedy, and arts and crafts.
• Saturday, March 15th: Elizabeth Fort Play Zone.
  • Elizabeth Fort is turning into a giant playground. Perfect for the letting the kids run off some energy before you grab a bite to eat.
• Sunday, March 16th: Céilí Mór & Trad Disco.
  • City Hall’s hosting an Afternoon Céilí Mór (3pm-6pm). Even if you’ve got two left feet, experienced dancers will guide you. Free booking on the festival website.
  • Elizabeth Fort also hosts a trad music disco, for those who want to get their trad on, with a modern twist.
  • St. Peter’s Cork will host a performance by sean-nós singer Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin.
• All Weekend Long:
  • Lee Sessions trad music, live music, guided tours, dance, comedy, exhibitions, and family-friendly events.
• Where can I find a loo in Cork City? It’s good to have an action plan in place if you’re caught short, especially if you’re in town with the kiddos. There are public toilets in Merchant’s Quay Shopping Centre (upstairs) and the Cornmarket Street Shopping Centre (downstairs – 20c). There’s also loos in the Paul Street Shopping Centre and you’ll also need 20c for the coin operated door there.