Topdeck Travel Blog

Topdeck’s Festival Manager Heather joins the locals for the ‘craic’ as she celebrates St Patrick’s Day in Dublin.

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“Craic” or “crack” is a term for fun, entertainment, and enjoyable conversation, particularly prominent in Ireland.

Every year on March 17 millions of people around the world head to their nearest pub to celebrate all that is Irish for St Patrick’s Day.

Ireland’s patron saint, St Patrick was famous for a number of remarkable feats including driving the snakes out of Ireland and teaching the Irish about Christianity. The national holiday marks the date of his death.

Last year I got the chance to make the day just that little bit more special with a trip to the Emerald Isles!

With as many green clothes as I could squeeze in my suitcase, I made my way to Dublin along with visitors from all over the world to join the locals in the traditional celebrations.

After checking into our hostel in the central city, we spent the rest of the evening soaking up the atmosphere and getting into the St Paddy’s spirit!

I was simply spoilt for choice when it came to entertainment! Over four days, Dublin plays host to more than 4000 world class performers including concerts, parades, street theatre and marching bands.

Our first morning in the city began with a walking tour of the must see sights such as Trinity College, the buzzing Temple Bar district, Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral.

Of course, no trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. And there’s no better time to stop by than on the eve of the big day!

After learning about each step of the Guinness brewing process we were all pretty thirsty. Thankfully the tour ends in the Gravity bar, famous for its 360° panoramic view of the city, it’s the perfect place to take in the scenery while you Sláinte (cheers) and enjoy your complimentary stout.

In a rather festive mood, we spent the rest of our afternoon finding suitably green clothing and accessories from local stores in preparation for tomorrow’s big day.

On the 17^th, we joined the masses of tourists and locals on the streets for the all-day celebrations before heading off to the Topdeck after party which lasted until the wee small hours!

Dublin is such a cosmopolitan and diverse city so it was a St Patrick’s Day to remember! The atmosphere over the four days was full of the expected Irish ‘Craic’ with plenty of singing, dancing and nightlife on offer making sure I had a holiday to remember with the biggest celebration on the Irish calendar.

For the ultimate St Patrick’s Day visit Dublin with one of Topdeck’s various festival options.