Dublin is gearing up for its most spectacular St. Patrick’s Day Parade yet, as over 500,000 people are expected to line the streets to celebrate Ireland’s biggest national holiday. With stunning floats, world-class performers, and vibrant marching bands, the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade promises to be an unmissable event.

This year’s Grand Marshal, acclaimed Irish actress Victoria Smurfit, will lead the 4,000-strong procession, setting the tone for a day filled with energy, excitement, and Irish pride.

Here’s everything you need to know about Dublin’s biggest St. Patrick’s Day Parade ever!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2025: When & Where

• Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
• Time: 12:00 PM (arrive early for the best views!)
• Route:
  – Starts at Parnell Square
  – Travels down O’Connell Street
  – Passes through College Green & Dame Street
  – Ends near St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The entire city centre will be transformed into a festival of colour, music, and non-stop entertainment!

For the full event schedule, visit the official St. Patrick’s Festival website.

What to Expect: Performers, Floats & Marching Bands

• 4,000+ performers from Ireland and around the world.
• Live marching bands from the USA, Canada, and Europe.
• Giant parade floats, storytelling Irish history and mythology.
• Street performers, dancers, and acrobats adding to the spectacle.

Expect everything from traditional Irish dancers to futuristic pageantry, as artists, musicians, and community groups put on an incredible visual and musical experience.

Grand Marshal: Victoria Smurfit Leads the Way

This year’s Grand Marshal, Irish actress Victoria Smurfit, is set to lead the massive parade through the heart of Dublin. Known for her roles in Ballykissangel, The Clinic, and Hollywood productions, Smurfit brings a touch of star power to the celebrations.

“I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to lead this year’s parade,” she said. “St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of who we are, and I can’t wait to see the streets of Dublin bursting with Irish pride!”

Best Viewing Spots & Where to Watch

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is free to attend, but with half a million people expected, the best spots will fill up fast!

• Top Viewing Locations:
  – O’Connell Street: Best for large crowds & atmosphere.
  – Dame Street: Slightly less crowded, but great visibility.
  – St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Ideal for families looking for space.
  – Big Screens: Located in key areas for live parade coverage.

Can’t make it? Watch the parade LIVE on RTÉ or stream it on the St. Patrick’s Festival website.

Essential Info: Road Closures & Travel Advice

Road Closures:
Expect major road closures in Dublin city centre from early morning on March 17. Key streets like O’Connell Street, Dame Street, and College Green will be fully closed for the parade.

Public Transport:

• Dublin Bus & Luas: Special festival timetables & diversions in place.
• DART & Train Services: Extra services will run throughout the day.
• Driving? Don’t! Park-and-ride services are the best option.

More St. Patrick’s Weekend Events in Dublin

The parade is just the start! Dublin will be buzzing all weekend with events:

Live Music & Concerts:

• Annie Mac at Vicar Street (March 16 & 17)
• Kilfenora Céilí Band at the National Concert Hall (March 16)
• Dublin Gospel Choir at The Helix (March 17)

Theatre & Cultural Shows:

• King Lear at The Gate Theatre (March 15-17)
• Macbeth at Smock Alley Theatre (March 12-15)

Festival Quarter at Collins Barracks:

• Food stalls, family activities, and cultural events from March 15-17.

Check out the full festival lineup here: Visit Dublin.

Don’t Miss the Biggest St. Patrick’s Day Parade Ever!

Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2025 is shaping up to be one for the history books! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is the ultimate celebration of Irish culture, music, and heritage.

Got a great spot for the parade? Share your best photos with us!
Will you be attending this year? Let us know in the comments!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Dublin!

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