If you’re thinking about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, let me tell you something: there’s nowhere quite like the west coast, and especially nowhere like County Clare.
While cities like Dublin put on a spectacular show, the real heart and soul of St. Patrick’s Day beats along the Wild Atlantic Way. In the music-filled pubs of Doolin, along the windswept paths of the Cliffs of Moher, and across the stone-walled landscapes of the Aran Islands.
So, from my point of view, here’s everything you need to know before you pull on something green and join us this March 17th.
What Is St. Patrick’s Day Really About?
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated every year on March 17th, honours Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick. While the day began as a religious feast day, it has grown into a global celebration of Irish culture, music, dance, storytelling, community, and yes… a bit of craic.
But here in County Clare, the day still feels deeply connected to tradition. It’s less commercial, more authentic, and that’s exactly how we like it.
Why County Clare Is the Best Place to Celebrate
Now, I might be biased, but there’s no better base for St. Patrick’s Day than County Clare.
Doolin: The Traditional Music Capital
If you want real Irish music, you come to Doolin. Known worldwide for traditional Irish sessions, Doolin’s pubs come alive on St. Patrick’s Day. You’ll find locals and visitors shoulder-to-shoulder, fiddles and bodhráns in full swing, and spontaneous singalongs that last long into the night.
Unlike the massive parades in New York City or Chicago (yes, I know they dye the river green!), Doolin offers something more personal. Real connection and genuine Irish hospitality.
And when you tour with me at Ollie’s Tours, I’ll make sure you’re in the right pub at the right time.
The Cliffs of Moher on St. Patrick’s Day
Imagine standing at the edge of the world, Atlantic waves crashing below, wind in your hair, and a sea of green stretching across the fields behind you.
That’s St. Patrick’s Day at the Cliffs of Moher.
March weather can be dramatic (this is Ireland, after all), but that only adds to the magic. The cliffs feel wild and alive, and far less crowded than peak summer months.
With Ollie’s Tours, I time visits to avoid the biggest tour bus rush and give you space to really take it all in.
Celebrate on the Aran Islands
If you want something truly special, spend St. Patrick’s Day on the Aran Islands. Here, Irish (Gaeilge) is still widely spoken, traditions run deep, and the pace of life slows beautifully. A St. Patrick’s Day parade on Inis Mór feels like stepping back in time, tractors decorated in green, children waving flags, neighbours greeting neighbours.
Cycle past stone walls, explore ancient forts like Dún Aonghasa, and warm up afterward in a cosy island pub.
It’s Ireland as it used to be, and I love bringing visitors there.
A Bit of History (Sure I Can’t Help Myself)
While today’s celebrations are lively, St. Patrick’s Day was once a much quieter religious occasion. It wasn’t until the 20th century, and particularly through Irish communities abroad that the festival grew into the global phenomenon it is today.
Ironically, some of the biggest parades happen outside Ireland! But here in County Clare, we focus on heritage, landscape, and music. The things that truly define us.
Why Tour with Ollie’s Tours?
Whether its St Patricks Day, or any other day in the year- things can get busy, even in Clare. That’s where I come in.
When you book a tour with me, you know that:
- I know the quiet viewing spots at the Cliffs of Moher.
- I time Aran Island trips around weather and ferry schedules.
- I have local knowledge of the best music sessions in Doolin.
- I share stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
- I keep things relaxed, fun, and genuinely Irish.
We’re not about rushing you from photo stop to photo stop. We’re about giving you the full experience of County Clare. The landscapes, the laughter, the history, and the heart. Find out more here.
If you’re going to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, why not do it properly?
Stand on the edge of the Atlantic at the Cliffs of Moher. Listen to live traditional music in Doolin.
Cycle across the Aran Islands. Watch a small-town Clare parade roll by. That’s the Ireland we love. And it’s the Ireland we’re proud to share. I’ll see you in Clare this March 17th.
Sláinte!
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