Go Away! To Dublin for St. Patrick's Day

Where?

Dublin for St Patrick's Day.

What?
The St. Patrick's Parade in Dublin opens the annual festival with a dazzling display from street theatre troupes, artists, dancers and marching bands. Thousands of onlookers will line the parade route to watch the colourful carnival against a backdrop of green light. The celebrations continue with The Commitments Gigs (14-19 March), reuniting after 20 years; The Dublin Swell Literary tour from 18 March and the much anticipated The England Vs Ireland Rugby game on Saturday 19 March, offering a perfect storm of Irishness.

Who?
Born in Wales to wealthy parents at the end of the 4th Century, at the tender age of 16, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders and whisked across the Irish Sea, where he spent the next six years in captivity working as a lonely shepherd. His religion was his solace, and so he became a devout Christian.

Why?
The Parade in Dublin is the biggest St Patrick's Day parade in the world and also one of the biggest creative productions in Europe.

When?
Thursday 17 March.

How?
Return flights start from £43 and ferry from £52

The Mespil Hotel which will have rooms for just under £100 or the airport hotels (about 5 miles away) are good and cheap – you'll get a room for around £55 and there's a big range.

The five star Dylan Hotel in Dublin has a special St. Patrick's Day Package including full Irish breakfast and a Jameson's nightcap from £150 per room
Plan your trip now at www.discoverireland.com