St Patrick’s Day in London

St Patrick's Day in London

London is a city beaming with life and activity. There is always something to do, something to go and see. With a capital that is so diverse and culturally rich, there are many celebrations along the year that make London the best city to live and study in.

Towards the end of winter, when days are finally getting longer and the temperature a little warmer, London gets together to celebrate St Patrick’s Day on the 17th of March.

What is St. Patrick’s Day?

St Patrick’s Day, also known as the feast of St Patrick, or St Paddy’s day, is a day dedicated to celebrating St Patrick. He is also known as the Patron Saint of Ireland.  You might have heard of him before. He’s usually portrayed wearing a big green hat and holding a shamrock (a small three-leaved plant that represents Ireland) but if you haven’t, here’s a little bit of history on him.

Who was St. Patrick?

St Patrick was a Roman Britain that lived in the 5th century. He was captured and enslaved by the Irish and when he finally got out, he converted many Irish folk to Christianity. He was then celebrated in Ireland for it and eventually became their patron saint. He is always painted with a shamrock which is to be said to represent the Holy Trinity.

Now, many countries celebrate St Patrick’s day, including the United States of America. It was actually in America, where they had a huge influx of Irish immigrants, that St Patrick’s day became more of a public celebration. It’s where the first St Paddy’s parade ever took place. It had up until then been only a religious feast. And now in 2022, there is a whole series of events dedicated to celebrating the Patron Saint of Ireland.

What to do on St Patrick’s day in London?

St Patrick’s Day Parade in front of the National Gallery in Trafalgar square in London

With such a large number of Irish people in London, it’s no wonder that there are many activities going on.

If you’re looking for a big street celebration, look no further than the St Patrick’s day festival that happens on the 13th of March. It’s a big festival where a wide range of Irish art, music and food is put on display so you can discover all things Irish. You will get to listen to some traditional Irish folk music and taste some delicious food (like Irish stew!). There is sure to be some fun and interesting performances. You should head to Trafalgar square to see the bulk of this.

On the same day, there will be a big annual parade where marching bands, sports teams and performers will entertain the crowds. The parade will begin at Hyde Park and go on to go to various London Landmarks such as Piccadilly Circus. Be sure to get there early so that you can see everything and take part in the St Patrick’s day spirit.

If you’re looking for something a bit more glam, make a trip to Phonix Arts Club on 17th March for their awesome St Patrick’s Day Cabaret Show and Dinner. Expect to watch some of the best Irish talent whilst tucking into a traditional three-course set menu. From comedians to musical stars of the west end, you’re sure to have a brilliant night!

Fancy a delicious steak meal this St Paddy’s Day? The Leyton Star has you covered. Enjoy tucking into an awesome selection of cuts, from fillet to ribeye, you won’t want to miss out on this hot event.

This year, Honest Burgers have teamed up with Guinness to create something rather special! Yes, you guessed it – the Guinness fondue burger. This includes Honest beef, Guinness fondue, candied bacon, crispy onions, gravy, rocket and pickles. Served with rosemary salted chips and coming in at £14, it’s available through the month of March. Sounds amazing right? Get yourself down to any Honest Burgers restaurant.

Comedy, sourdough pizzas and a heated garden – what more could you ask for?! Join this comedy night at The Hawk’s Nest in Shepherd’s Bush Market for a night full of belly laughs.

For those of you who are a little more sporty, there is also a St Patrick’s day run organised on the 19th of March. So why not slip on your trainers, grab a green hat and head to Hyde Park for the second annual St Patrick’s day Run? It’s sure to be a lot of fun!

If you are looking for something a little more relaxed, you can always hit up a traditional Irish Pub with a group of friends. There you will be sure to find many people celebrating St Paddy’s day,  so make sure to wear something green and find yourself a big green shamrock hat! 

In short, there are many events and activities organised across London during the week of St Patrick’s day. From parades to park runs, there is something for everyone. So be sure to join in the spirit and check out what the Irish are all about!

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