Here are ten exciting things to do 16 – 22 March
St Patrick’s Day at Slemish, Broughshane, County Antrim, 17 March. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in spectacular style with a memorable trek up Slemish – the legendary mountain where Ireland’s patron saint once tended sheep. This iconic annual tradition invites you to conquer the 1.5 kilometre round walk to the summit and take in the breathtaking panoramic views.- St Patrick’s Day Spring Carnival 2026, Derry~Londonderry, 17 March. Savour mouth-watering food from local vendors, explore the charm of traditional Irish music and be part of the magic as the St Patrick’s Day parade winds through the streets, showcasing dazzling displays of colour, creativity, and culture. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Spring in Derry~Londonderry.
- St Patrick’s Day Parade, Belfast, 17 March. A dazzling display of costume, music, dance and circus will bring the streets of Belfast alive this St Patrick’s Day. The annual parade will weave its way through the city centre. With colourful live performance and a high energy soundtrack, this year’s parade will include some new elements to celebrate the legends of St Patrick.
- St Patrick’s Day at Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 17 March. Join them for a family day filled with music, storytelling and hands-on activities that bring Ireland’s past to life. There’ll be traditional music performances and Irish dancing displays, plus folklore tales of legends and lore. Try Irish language taster sessions, sample colcannon and get hands-on with their family craft station.
- St Patrick’s Day Parade in Newry City, and St Patrick’s Day Parade in Downpatrick, County Down, 17 March. St Patrick’s Day parades will be the centre of celebrations in Newry City and Downpatrick. Led by Saint Patrick himself, the St Patrick’s Day parade will offer a feast for eyes and ears as swirling dancers, community floats and costumed characters entertain the crowds.
- St Patrick’s Day Omagh: Music and Mythology, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. The streets of Omagh will come alive at this year’s St Patrick’s weekend with a vibrant celebration of music, mythology, dance and carnival parade. Delivered by Urban Events NI under the theme Music & Mythology, this year’s programme brings together an exciting blend of traditional musicians, dancers, performers and local groups to create an unforgettable festival experience.
- St Patrick’s Day at Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, 17 March. Enjoy a day of Irish heritage and celebration as you explore the history of the shamrock, accompanied by the sounds of traditional Irish music across Ulster and America. Watch Irish dance performances and see traditional craft demonstrations like basket weaving throughout the day. Stop by the Mellon House where the table will be filled with customary foods like colcannon and apple tart, taste samples of fruit brack and follow the ‘Shamrock Selfie Trail.’
- St Patrick’s Day Parade in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 17 Match. From Castle to Castle, the traditional parade will snake through the heart of Enniskillen, crossing its iconic bridges and celebrating the unique geography of the island town. The celebrations continue with an extended free fun day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, featuring family entertainment, activities and special guest appearances throughout the early afternoon.
- Sunrise at Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 March. What made Emain Macha so special to the ancient people of Ulster? Why was this site so steeped in history and wonder that it drew St Patrick to the area to build his first church? Celebrate St Patrick’s morning with St Patrick himself and the ancient people of Ulster. This year bear witness, through drama, to the story of a bull which attempted to stop the building of Patrick’s church and participate in a ceremony by the sacred pool. Afterwards, have breakfast with them, to the sound of live music.
- Sperrins Festival, Gortin, County Tyrone, 20 –22 March. Sperrins Festival is a three-day celebration of landscape, heritage, and community, taking place across Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It aims to strengthen connections between people and place, support sustainable tourism, and provide new opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate the area’s rich and diverse heritage and culture.
For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.
Subject to availabilities with select dates.