5 St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Ireland (that aren’t the Dublin Parade!)
St Patrick’s Day on the Emerald Isle
On 17th March, people around the world don their green and wear a shamrock bouquet to celebrate Ireland’s Patron Saint with parades, good cheer and maybe an occasional beer. Many towns and villages across the Emerald Isle host their own parade creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. If you are planning a visit to Ireland this St Patrick’s Day and want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Dublin, campervan hire is your transport and accommodation in one, getting you to all the must-see attractions in Ireland during the festival of St Patrick’s Day.
To get you on the road, we’ve listed 5 alternative ways to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Ireland:
Follow the Footsteps of a Saint – St Patrick’s Country Driving Route
From Bunk Campers depots in Belfast or Dublin follow the Saint’s footsteps in your campervan and drive along the St. Patrick’s Trail, a 92-mile route around Northern Ireland. Discover St Patrick’s stories written in the stones while exploring the natural paradise. It won’t be long before you uncover just how strong Northern Ireland’s roots with the patron saint are. Along the way, visit cathedrals, parades and medieval abbeys set to a backdrop of stunning views and landscapes. Why not stop off on the way and cook lunch in your camper amongst the green countryside and enjoy a hike up the Slemish Mountain? All of our campervans come equipped with cooking facilities and a kettle for a warm cup of tea or coffee and a hot meal at the end of the day.
Nearest campsite: Carnfunnock Country Park, Coast Rd, Ballygalley, Larne BT40 2QZ
Derry/Londonderry Festival
Mystical creatures will snake their way through the city’s streets along with a host of characters representing young people from fables and fairy tales from faraway lands. Today’s youth and culture will have pride of place, so expect to be delighted by dance moves from everything from ballet to hip hop.
The North West Carnival Initiative works alongside Greater Shantallow Community Arts and In Your Space to engage with over 600 participants from local schools, youth clubs and arts and cultural organisations in helping to create this highlight event of the weekend.
Nearest campsite: Ballyronan Marina & Caravan Park, 135A Shore Road, Ballyronan, Co. Derry, BT45 6JA
FULL LIST OF FESTIVALS & PARADES ON IRELAND.COM >>
Limerick International Band Festival
In the South West of Ireland, the international band championship takes place in Limerick. The event features musicians from across Europe and America and takes place on the Sunday of St Patrick’s weekend. Over 1000 musicians are expected to take part, playing marching music accompanied by Irish tunes, in front of a world-class judging panel on the streets of Limerick. The weekend incorporates the county’s largest annual family fun weekend festival and includes all aspects Irish including fashion, music, sports, art and food.
Nearest campsite: Adare Camping and Caravan Park, Adare, Limerick, Ireland.
The Blarney Stone
With St Patrick’s Day celebrating all things Irish including the famous tradition and culture, why not try one of the Emerald Isle’s most famous customs… “kissing” the blarney stone! Said to bestow the gift of “eloquence,” the centuries-old stone is situated below the battlements of the Blarney Castle in Cork. Take your campervan this way and discover the 600-year-old castle, world landmark and one of Irelands Greatest Treasures.
Nearest campsite: Blarney Caravan and Camping Park, Stone View, Blarney, Co Cork, Ireland
Glendalough, Wicklow
For those who want to combine the history of St Patrick with the relaxation and beauty of Ireland, historic Glendalough is the place to go. Located in Ireland’s Ancient East, Glendalough is home to the famous Monastic Settlement, said to have been passed through by St Patrick. The walking tours along the miner’s path and along the cascading river lead to magnificent and breathtaking views of the lake and glacial valley. Park your campervan here and enjoy the full range of history and relaxation there is to offer!
Nearest campsite: Wolohan’s Silver Strand, Silver Strand, Dunbur Upper, Wicklow, Co. Wicklow
Book a St Patrick’s Day Campervan Road Trip in Ireland
So if you are looking to get off the beaten track this St Patrick’s Day and experience authentic, traditional Irish culture, campervan hire in Ireland is a great alternative to car hire and B&B. Enjoy the freedom and independence to tour Ireland at your leisure- stopping, shopping and cooking along the way.
For more information and booking, simply use the Bunk Campers booking bar here on the website to get live availability for your dates, email or call +44 (0) 2890 813057. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook to be updated on the latest promotions, travel routes, destinations and tips!
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