There’s no doubt about it – Dublin is full of life on St Patrick’s Day. But whether you have celebrated in the past and want something a little more sedate, or if you’d rather see a low-key side to the city, there are plenty of things to do in Dublin on the day itself.

Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral

There’s no better day to visit St Patrick Cathedral than on the saint’s day. This is the largest cathedral in Ireland, and is located right in the city centre in amongst beautiful gardens. On March 17^th, there are four special services taking place, but you can also take a guided tour of the cathedral at set times – just be sure to book tickets online in advance.
See: stpatrickscathedral.ie

Dublin Bay Prawn Festival

If you want to get out of the city entirely, then a 20 minute hop on the Dart will bring you to the pretty seaside village of Howth, where, on 17^th – 19^th March, the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival will be held. There will be amazing seafood on offer, from Howth’s best restaurants, as well as music, cooking demonstrations, walks and talks.
See: facebook.com/dublinbayprawnfestival

Make your own St. Patrick's Bell

There’s always something worth seeing in the National Museum of Archaeology, but if you have kids with you on St Patrick’s Day then they’ll love this workshop. Suitable for children aged 8 and up, this free workshop will teach them about our patron saint and his relics, and they will also get to make their very own St Patrick’s Bell. There’s also a St Patrick’s Treasure Hunt in the Museum of Natural History on Merrion Street on Saturday 18^th.
See: museum.ie

Take a stroll in the Phoenix Park

If you want to escape the energy of the day without leaving the city, then a walk in the Phoenix Park is just the ticket. The largest park in any European city, these 707 hectares are the perfect place to unwind and clear your mind. Stop into the tea rooms for a slice of cake, and your dream afternoon is complete.
See: phoenixpark.ie

Lunchtime Lecture at the Little Museum

There are a series of free talks and debates held over St Patrick’s Weekend, including this one at the Little Museum of Dublin. ‘The Past is the Present: Irishman of the Century’ will be led by Biographer Anne Chambers, who will be discussing the late and renowned TK Whitaker, one of the most important figures in modern Irish history. Tickets are free, but booking is advised.
See: stpatricksfestival.ie