The countdown is on to Armagh’s iconic Home of St Patrick Festival, taking place for nine spectacular days from 10-18 March, promising a unique programme of history, heritage and place in his chosen home.
The Home of St Patrick Festival’s unique distinction, what sets it apart from every other world-wide celebration, is the relationship between programme and place and the resonance that this important city, its two cathedrals named after him, its landscape and the stunning Georgian backdrop it is famous for.
Locals and visitors from across the world attending the festival can now secure their tickets to the showstopping line up of events, featuring the best of music, art, theatre, film and dance across multiple venues – an outstanding opportunity to reflect on his life, legacy and impact in a thrilling showcase of culture, entertainment and hospitality.
“A home to artists, libraries, poets and scientists, Armagh is a place of innovation and mindfulness in equal measure and this year’s Home of St Patrick Festival reflects every element of these with plenty of family fun too,” Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Margaret Tinsley, said: “There are walks, talks, tours, music, song, comedy, dance and unlimited festival fun to entertain everyone, every day.”
Fans of traditional and contemporary music will be delighted as award-winning songwriter Phil Coulter and his exceptional musical guests fill St Patrick’s beautiful cathedral on Sunday 10 March, sharing some of his much-loved repertoire and introducing some of his more recent works.
On Friday 15 March, Food writer, restaurant critic and PR man Joris Minne leads a special music and literature-themed event at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland cathedral featuring a unique selection of some of Ireland’s internationally renowned musicians from the classical and traditional worlds.
Also on Friday, following last year’s sell-out event, Malachi Cush and Karl McGuckin return with their musical ensemble to present an evening of Ireland’s favourite songs and melodies at The Market Place Theatre while ‘Song, Storytelling and Stew’ at the city’s Charlemont Arms Hotel will host an evening filled with traditional Irish stories, song and great food hosted by award-winning local Bard Jimmy Rafferty.
Navan Centre & Fort is the iconic location for a St Patrick’s Day Session on Saturday 16 March when the electrifying energy of ‘An Fuaim’, a rising star on the Irish music scene as they take to the stage at 2.30pm. Captivating audiences throughout 2023, the band featured at the Lovestock and Lughnasadh festivals and were featured on BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Newsline and on RTE.
On St Patrick’s Day on Sunday 17 March, you’re encouraged to get up early and take yourself back to Navan Centre and Fort to celebrate the first light and enjoy a hearty breakfast to the sound of live music.
In a stunningly beautiful city which can be enjoyed on foot, step into the shoes of St Patrick and soak up the history and culture with a range of special tours hosted by Donna Fox. There’s the Home of St Patrick Vigil Walk on Saturday 16 March and a range of additional walks available right through until Monday.
With a 9 – day packed programme of unique events, you can be sure that there is something for everyone to enjoy at Armagh’s Home of St Patrick festival. From St Patrick’s Poetry Readings in the Armagh Robinson Library presented by the Armagh City Chater and the John Hewitt Society, to the live reenactment of a historical case by living history characters – be ready for a dual at Death Before Dishonour with Pistols at Dawn at the Armagh Country Club.
For those looking to get their hands dirty and master a new skill, learn how to make Granny’s Griddle Bread at Long Meadow Cider. For the little ones, come along to The Market Place Theatre on Saturday 16th March and let your junior baker get to work on decorating their very own St Patrick’s Festival Cupcakes.
For more information on the full range of bookable and free events, visit https://bitly.ws/3bbgt