Burke welcomes details of national St Patrick's Day parade

Four days and nights of events are planned in Dublin for the St Patrick’s Festival weekend, March 14-17, which has as its theme this year ‘Roots’, exploring identity, belonging and shared stories across generations.

In his role as Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, TD, has welcomed the announcement of the programme, in which will some 150 artists and 3,000 participants will take part in a vibrant city-wide programme spanning music, street theatre, dance, comedy, craft and participatory performance.

“St Patrick’s Festival is a significant driver of economic activity, supporting jobs, local enterprise and the wider tourism economy,” said Minister Burke, stating that festivals of this scale celebrate culture and identity, and also deliver real benefits for local businesses, tourism and employment across Dublin and beyond.

“The 2026 programme shines a light on the richness of our culture and the stories that bring us together, creating shared experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds,” he said.

“By showcasing Ireland as a welcoming destination, the St Patrick’s Festival strengthens our international reputation, and I am pleased to support a festival that continues to attract and inspire visitors year after year.”

The national St Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Tuesday March 17, promising a showcase of imagination, scale and creativity as it proceeds along its established route from Parnell Square.

International participation remains a hallmark of the parade, and marching bands will travel from Scotland and the United States, including eight American bands from Ohio, Arizona, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Mississippi, Indiana and Texas, reflecting the cultural connections between Ireland and its global diaspora.

The parade will be broadcast live on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. The festival programme at stpatricksfestival.ie will continue to be updated as further events are announced.