Your Go To Guide To A Deadly St Patrick’s Weekend In The Rebel County

Where better to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than in Ireland? And where better in Ireland to celebrate than in The City of Welcomes? The people of Cork don’t feel it’s enough to just celebrate on St. Patrick’s Day itself and instead are marking the occasion with a 4 day festival held from Friday 14th to Monday 17th of March. The city will be opening its arms and sharing the very best of its culture and history for everyone to enjoy over the long weekend.
There will be a mix of performances from varying artists throughout the few days. As well as a céilí mór on the 16th where everyone can drum up some Irish spirit, just in time for the big day! Seanchoíche, a popular Irish story telling community will be holding a night based all around the theme of each person’s love of Cork, which is not to be missed. Take the opportunity to deepen your own love of Cork and join one of the number of tours exploring Cork City Gaol, cruises around Cork Harbour and walks around the UCC campus. Check out the full Cork St. Patrick’s Festival schedule here.
The day itself will entail a parade, which will see varying groups of all different ages and talents march through Cork’s city centre. The theme of the parade this year is ‘Building A Better World’ and is promoting the importance of diversity and inclusion, which will be reflected throughout four days of festivities. The St. Patrick’s Day parade is a staple in the Irish calendar and something the whole family can enjoy together.
1. Start the Day off Right
Firstly, be sure to let yourself have a lie in, it’s a holiday after all! Take some time for yourself and go for a swim in the relaxation pool or treat yourself to a steam and sauna. For those who are raring to go, why not do a workout in Power Gym? After you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way up to Sophie’s for an elevated brunch on our stunning rooftop terrace overlooking the city’s Docklands.
2. Join the St Patrick’s Day Festivities
After breakfast, head down to the lobby bar and stop for one, before strolling into the city. The parade will begin at 1pm, just over the river. The parade will commence on the South Mall. It will then loop down the Grand Parade and will flow up Patrick’s Street and finish along the river at Merchants Quay. Cross over The Lee to Merchants Quay and secure your spot for the show, (with a pint of the black stuff in hand!).
3. Soak Up Some Culture
The parade will wrap up around 3pm and we suggest you visit the extremely buzzy Sin é, which holds Cork’s longest running traditional music sessions. If you can’t get enough of the trad scene, at 6pm Coughlan’s Bar is hosting The Céilí Allstars, a fab four piece traditional Irish music band, who have played all over the world!
4. Go Get a Good Feed
After a long day of festivities, make your way back to the Dean for a rooftop sunset dinner at Sophie’s. With its vast menu, there is something for everyone. After dinner, enjoy a custom cocktail or whiskey nightcap. Cheers to St. Patrick before heading for another amazing night’s sleep in one of our insanely comfy beds!
Book your stay now and make this St Patrick’s Day one to remember.