Ireland's national day and Dublin's biggest celebration. The city turns green — literally, with the river Liffey dyed green some years — for a week of festivals, culminating in the March 17 parade through the city centre. Over 500,000 people line the parade route. But the real draw is the pub culture: Irish traditional music sessions in every bar, the warmth of a Guinness in a Victorian Dublin pub, and the particular atmosphere of an entire nation simultaneously celebrating its identity. The festival has expanded into a five-day programme including theatre, music, and street spectacle.
Book Dublin accommodation 3–4 months ahead. The Temple Bar area gets extremely crowded — explore the Liberties and Stoneybatter neighbourhoods for more local pub experiences.