The festivities around St. Patrick’s Day can sometimes feel like an endless parade, of well, parades so this year we have rounded up some alternative ways to celebrate all things Irish. We're counting down the top 10 things to do with a space at the end for you to send in your ideas.
What do you think should be in the number 1 spot?
10. Debate - St. Patrick Christianised Ireland
Olivia O'Leary will chair this debate in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny with the motion being 'St. Patrick Christianised Ireland.' The two teams will be drawn from the academic staff of UCD and NUI Galway and tickets are available from Rothe House at a cost of €10 each. Telephone (056) 772 2893 to book.
9. St. Patrick's Live Dublin
Watch a host of bands and DJ’s performing from the comfort of your own sitting room. Bombay Bicycle Club, Jape, The Cast of Cheers, Erol Alkan, Surgeon, DJ EZ and Daniel Wang will be performing in The Academy and The Twisted Pepper on Sunday. Wherever you are in the country you can watch the performances live on www.jamesonwhiskey.com. Or you can just buy a ticket here and head along.
8. Best Of Irish Awards Special
The craicing final of the search for Irelands funniest stand up comedian starts on March 14. The audience will select the winner on the third night of the competition in the Laughter Lounge. Tickets can be purchased here.
7. Children's Books Ireland
The Irish Design Shop and RHA are offering a range of activities for children to celebrate the talent of contemporary Irish writers and illustrators. Children can create and personalise their own books and take cartooning workshops among other activities. Niall McCormack will give a presentation on vintage Irish book covers from the 1920's to the 1970's and Kevin Waldron will debut his picture book, 'Mr. Peek and the Misunderstanding at the Zoo'. The event runs from March 16 -18. To reserve a space please email the RHA: info@rhagallery.ie. All events are free but some events have limited spaces available.
6. Connemara Four Seasons Walking Festival
Explore Connemara with guides Michael Gibbons and Gerry McCluskey providing a unique insight into the rich cultural, archaeological and historic heritage of the area. The walks are suitable for all levels but the event consists of two days walking so make sure you have comfortable boots. The events run from 15-17 March. Visit www.connemaraireland.com for more information.
5. Kilkenny TradFest
The famous Kilkenny TradFest will feature some of the best live traditional music, song and dance led by some of Ireland's most beloved musicians. There will be sean nós singing workshops, sean-nós dancing, uilleann pipes and flute masterclasses, fiddle classes and free set dancing workshops on the streets of Kilkenny. TradFest 2013 will also incorporate the annual Kilkenny St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
4. Slow Food Waterford
Waterfords unique indoor food market is a treat for all ages. All of the food is fresh and Irish grown and the producers have promised special value offerings over the weekend. There will be entertainment throughout the day such as face painting and food demonstrations. Merchants Quay, Waterford. Open Friday to Sunday from 12 noon to 5.00pm.
3. National Botanic Gardens”¨ Guided Walk: Irish Plants for St. Patrick’s Day
If you are looking for a different way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day visit the Botanical Gardens for a guided walk through the Irish Native Plant collection. The tour is free of charge and kicks off at 2.30pm from the Education and Visitor Centre.
2. The Irish Craft Beer Village
Irish Craft Beer is experiencing something of a revival at present and last years Craft Beer Festival had over 11,000 attendees. This weekend the festival returns to George’s Dock for six days from March 13 and will feature a mix of craft beer and cider, artisan food and live Irish music daily. Admission is free before noon but €5 at the door after 7pm. For further details check out www.irishfest.ie
1. What do you think the best way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is?
Share your ideas below....
