Home of St. Patrick Festival returns to Co Armagh this March

Armagh City – the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and the only city in the world with two cathedrals dedicated to Saint Patrick – is gearing up to welcome thousands of visitors for its Home of St. Patrick Festival.

The week-long celebration, taking place from March 9 to March 17, will honor the life and legacy of the island’s patron saint with an exciting lineup of music, art, theatre, and cultural experiences that promise to captivate and inspire.

Steeped in history, Armagh is uniquely connected to St. Patrick, who established his first stone church in the city in 445 AD. The iconic City provides the perfect backdrop to understand why he brings such meaning to people here, and the profound influence he left on the culture and heritage of this island.

One of the most significant events in the Festival’s program is the Vigil Walk.

The torch-led walk takes place on Sunday 16 at 7:30p m and connects Armagh’s two breathtaking Cathedrals – St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral – in a symbolic reflection of St. Patrick’s own journey to unite people through Christianity.

Guided walking tours of the Cathedrals and surrounding areas will also take place throughout the Festival and offer insights into why St. Patrick chose Armagh to build his first stone church, along with stories, myths, and legends from his time here.

On St. Patrick’s morning, March 17, Navan Centre and Fort will explore what drew the Saint to the area to build his first church as it hosts its Dawn Light event.

Through drama and live music, the event will bring to life the ancient story of St. Patrick’s arrival, and how he asked the local chieftain, Daire, for the Hill of the Sallows to build a church.

Organized by the local community, the festivities will culminate with Armagh’s iconic parade on the 17th. Starting early afternoon, the parade will begin at the Christian Brothers' School, joyously weaving its way through the city, pleasing onlookers with music, entertainment, and colourful displays.

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Church of Ireland Cathedral lit up green for St Patricks Day.

Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said: “The Home of St. Patrick Festival is one of the island’s premier cultural and historical events, and we’re delighted to welcome visitors to Armagh once again.

"St. Patrick began his mission here, and with two cathedrals named in his honor, our city offers an unparalleled connection to him.

"For local and international visitors looking to connect with Ireland’s heritage, there’s no better place to explore and celebrate the legacy of our patron saint.

“This year’s festival features an exciting mix of music, art, theatre, film, dance, and local food and drink, all celebrating St. Patrick’s profound impact on Ireland and the world.

"Whether you’re a history enthusiast, interested in local culture, or seeking a family-friendly day out, the festival promises an authentic and immersive experience in the place St. Patrick once called his ‘sweet little hill.’”

The Pilgrim’s Walk, a 132km (82-mile) trail that stretches from Navan Fort in Armagh to Down Cathedral in Downpatrick is a once in a lifetime experience inspired by St. Patrick’s time in the area. While this sacred walk is a special feature of the festival, it can also be enjoyed throughout the year, offering visitors the unique opportunity to retrace St. Patrick’s steps and connect with the spiritual journey he once made.

Whilst the Festival is very much an ode to and reflection of St. Patrick, it is also a celebration of the vibrant and unique cultural spirit of the region.

From March 14 to 16, Armagh’s live Irish music trail will fill the city’s welcoming pubs with vibrant performances by artists like Gary Owen and Eoin Ogs Kelly. The lively atmosphere continues on March 14 with St. Patrick’s Shindig Open Air Concert in Market Square, featuring electrifying performances from popular Irish bands The High Stool Prophets, Pure Blarney, and The Reillys.

A stunning concert by Malachy Cush at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral will kick off the festival on March 9. Other events include an enchanting performance by the vocal ensemble SYSTIR at St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral on March 15 and the contemporary Irish dance show JigJazz on March 16, which promises to leave audiences spellbound.

Sara McGeary, Tourism Manager, said: “St. Patrick is known around the world, but Armagh is where his story truly began. It was here that St. Patrick began his mission and with two cathedrals bearing his name, our city offers an authentic connection to his story.

"For centuries, Armagh has been a place of pilgrimage and celebration, and our festival proudly continues that tradition.

"This year’s diverse program—featuring everything from live music trails to sunrise storytelling at Navan—ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy, all while honoring St. Patrick’s enduring influence."

You can learn more about the Home of St. Patrick Festival 2025 here on VisitArmagh.com.