Best Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Events in Ireland 2025: Parades, Festivals & Activities
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the biggest celebrations in Ireland, and for families, it’s a chance to enjoy exciting parades, cultural events, and outdoor fun together. Whether you’re in Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Kilkenny, or Waterford, there are fantastic family-friendly activities to experience.
Here’s a look at the best family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day events in Ireland in 2025!
1. Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival Parade
- Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
- Location: Parnell Square, Dublin
- Highlights: Giant floats, international marching bands, street performers
Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival Parade is the biggest event of the holiday, featuring 4,000 performers, dancers, and musicians from around the world. Families can enjoy spectacular floats, street theatre, and music, as the parade moves through the city centre from Parnell Square to St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Family Tip: Arrive early to get a good viewing spot, especially near O’Connell Street or Dame Street.
More info: St. Patrick’s Festival Dublin
2. Galway’s St. Patrick’s Festival – Live Music & Family Fun
- Date: March 16-18, 2025
- Location: Eyre Square & Salthill, Galway
- Highlights: Live Irish music, outdoor performances, family workshops
Galway’s St. Patrick’s Festival offers a lively parade, live music in Eyre Square, and cultural events throughout the weekend. Families can enjoy traditional Irish music, street entertainers, and film screenings at Galway City Museum. Salthill also hosts outdoor activities and family-friendly performances.
Family Tip: Visit the Spanish Arch for street performances and interactive workshops for kids.
More info: Galway Tourism
3. Limerick’s St. Patrick’s Festival – A Must-See Parade
- Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
- Location: Limerick City Centre
- Highlights: Vibrant community parade, cultural events, fireworks
Limerick’s St. Patrick’s Festival features one of the most dynamic parades in Ireland, with community groups, schools, sports clubs, and musicians all taking part. The festival also includes cultural performances, live entertainment, and funfair rides for families.
Family Tip: Check out the fireworks display on Sunday night for an extra treat!
More info: Discover Ireland
4. Kilkenny’s St. Patrick’s Day Festivities – Culture & History
- Date: March 15-17, 2025
- Location: Kilkenny City
- Highlights: Medieval-themed events, live music, children’s entertainment
Kilkenny offers a unique St. Patrick’s Day experience, combining history, culture, and fun. Families can enjoy interactive workshops, storytelling, music, and dance performances in the city’s medieval streets.
Family Tip: Take the kids to Kilkenny Castle for special St. Patrick’s Day activities.
More info: Kilkenny Events
5. Waterford’s St. Patrick’s Festival – Ireland’s Oldest City in Celebration
- Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
- Location: Waterford City
- Highlights: Vibrant parade, children’s workshops, outdoor entertainment
Waterford’s St. Patrick’s Festival features a colorful parade winding through the city’s historic streets, live performances, and family-friendly attractions. The festival embraces modern creativity and traditional Irish heritage.
Family Tip: Visit Reginald’s Tower and the Viking Triangle for an extra cultural experience.
More info: Waterford Events
More Family-Friendly St. Patrick’s Day Ideas in Ireland
If you want to avoid the big crowds but still celebrate, here are some alternative ways to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day with kids:
- Visit a pet farm or wildlife park – Many farms host special St. Patrick’s-themed events.
- Go on a St. Patrick’s Day scavenger hunt – Explore your local area and look for green-themed decorations.
- Try a traditional Irish baking day – Bake soda bread, scones, or St. Patrick’s-themed cupcakes.
- Have a picnic at a scenic Irish park – Visit places like Glendalough, the Cliffs of Moher, or the Wicklow Mountains.
- Enjoy a family movie night with Irish classics – Watch The Secret of Kells or Song of the Sea.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the Whole Family!
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Irish culture, parades, and festivals with family and friends. Whether you’re in Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Kilkenny, or Waterford, there are plenty of fun-filled activities for kids and parents alike.
How will your family celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year? Let us know in the comments!
Don’t forget to share this guide with other families looking for fun events!
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