The talents and achievements of Irish people go on full display in five
days of festivities throughout the capital of the Emerald Isle, starting
with the “greening” of the city on March 14, when dozens of
buildings, venues, and spaces are illuminated green. In and around
most of them, find endless opportunities to enjoy the Irish arts.
The parade itself — through the heart of Dublin — takes artistic
expression to a new levels, with the country’s top street theater
and pageant companies taking full advantage of the platform,
with magnificent creations and flamboyant performances — think
puppetry, stilt walkers, and costumed dancers — worthy of Carnival
in Brazil or Mardi Gras in New Orleans. They’ll be cheered on by
more than 500,000 fans, including Irish celebrities of every stripe.
But the parade only scratches the tippy top of the surface of St.
Patrick Day activities in Dublin. Discover St. Patrick himself on a
special walking tour led by renowned Dublin author and historian,
Pat Liddy; dive into your own Irish heritage at The National Archives
of Ireland, which provides a free genealogy service to help you
trace your ancestors; or simply while away the day in the more than
1,000 pubs of Dublin or Guinness Brewery itself. Never rush your
bartender’s “two-part” Guinness pour; this is a sacred rite in Ireland.
GETTING THERE: Both Aer Lingus and United offer nonstop
flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to
Dublin Airport (DUB).
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Boston
Credit: Kyle Klein Photography
SPRING 2019 39 FLYWASHINGTON.COM