St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland isn’t about green beer, plastic shamrocks, getting pinched (ouch) and there’s no corned beef in sight.

It’s a celebration of not just the Patron Saint of Ireland, but of an enduring spirit and connection. March 17 is a day when the country pauses to celebrate and honor culture, humor and the people who make us what we are. And of course, we can all toast to that. From Dublin to Galway, to Belfast to Waterford – it’s not just a day off for a drink; it’s a festival atmosphere of the living, breathing extensions of Ireland itself. Here’s a quick brief on what to see and do if you’re planning on visiting at or around St. Patrick’s Day.

What to Do: In Dublin, St. Patrick’s Day Week

Dublin is the epicenter of the revelry, for St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland and the St. Patrick’s Day Festival lasts for days, crawling across the city with a wide range of events and entertainment both day and night.

If you’ve never been to Ireland before and you’re willing to brave the crowds for a pint or a glass: Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Bow Street, Temple Bar and The Brazen Head.

For the culture and history of Ireland here’s the must-sees, get at least one, if not all of them (we’ll help you): Swing by St. Patrick’s Cathedral, take in the The Book of Kells experience at Trinity College, walk the halls of Dublin Castle and the corridors and interactive displays of EPIC Museum. If you want to discover your own Irish history, we can help you plan ahead and get a genealogy appointment at the Irish Family History Centre. 

Looking for more, beyond the attractions and festival? Take to the streets with a walking tour filled with secrets, stories and history, like with Pat Liddy, or step into the pubs, where the air is thick with laughter and the sound of music and voices raised in song. Order yourself a proper pint, find a seat (if you’re lucky), and listen—because in Ireland, every person has a story, and if you stay long enough, you’ll hear a few that might just change you.

Travel Do’s & Don’t

Just a few simple basics and manners to mind when you’re visiting, at any time!

DO:

• Eat! Get yourself a famous Irish breakfast to start the day – you can’t celebrate on an empty stomach 
• Have a plan, and discuss with your friends or group, for where you want to be
• Bring a power pack for your phone
• Anticipate crowds, long drive times and few cabs – so figure out ahead what you can do within walking distance
• Screenshot a map of your anticipated walking routes for the day
• Dress in smart layers – walking around and revelry will warm you up

DON’T:

• Make jokes about Ireland’s history or hardship to the locals
• Expect to find Corned Beef – that’s strictly Irish American fare
• Split off from your group, getting lost is no joke

And remember: At its core, St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland isn’t just a party—it’s a reminder of who the Irish are. A people who’ve faced much throughout history, but held onto their humor, generosity and a unique gift for spinning the ordinary into legend. Go beyond getting drunk, and instead try drinking in the culture, the camaraderie, the sheer, undeniable joy of being Irish—if only for a day.