Embrace the celebrations as Limerick St. Patrick’s Festival makes a welcome return with lots of free family fun for all to enjoy! From 13th - 17th March, the city will burst into life with lively parades, creativity, music, storytelling and hands‑on fun for families of all ages.
In addition to beloved annual highlights - the Limerick International Band Championship on 15th March and the Limerick St. Patrick’s Day Parade on 17th March - this year’s festival will feature an exciting line-up of family‑friendly events.
Whether you’re a fan of live performances, curious crafts, traditional folklore or colourful outdoor adventures, the 2026 programme has something special waiting for you.
Here’s your guide to the must‑see, family‑friendly events lighting up Limerick this St. Patrick’s Festival.
St. Patrick’s Festival Block Party
17th March | 2pm | Arthur’s Quay Park | Free
When the parade ends, the party begins! Arthur’s Quay Park will erupt into a high‑energy celebration of dance, music and aerial artistry. Highlights include:
- Electrifying aerial performances by Fidget Feet, soaring above the crowds
- Joyful mayhem from the Irish National Clown Orchestra
A fantastic way to keep the St. Patrick’s Day buzz going strong!
St. Patrick’s Festival at Limerick Milk Market
13th – 17th March | Free, Walk‑In
The iconic Milk Market transforms into a festival hub packed with free, family‑friendly entertainment. Expect lively celebrations with creative workshops, live demonstrations, music and dance.
St. Patrick’s Day Family Fun Day
Tuesday 17th March | 11am - 4pm
A carnival of colour and excitement featuring stilt walkers, fire breathers, themed characters, games, prizes, and face painting - all set to the unforgettable sound of Mickey Dunne and Friends on Uilleann pipes. A perfect day out for families looking to soak up the festival spirit.
St. Patrick’s Weekend at the Hunt Museum
13th – 17th March | Free
Celebrate Irish culture and heritage with a full programme of family activities, including storytelling sessions, guided tours, movie screenings, interactive games and arts & crafts inspired by ancient Irish design.
Featured Workshops:
- Celtic Knot Arts & Crafts – Saturday 14th March, 11am - 1pm
- St. Patrick’s Day Wands – Monday 16th March, 11.30am - 1.30pm
Accessible, educational and lots of fun for curious minds!
Museum of Memorable Trees
13th – 14th March | Hunt Museum Gardens | Free
Step into an atmospheric outdoor installation celebrating the stories we share with nature. Through miniature dioramas and immersive soundscapes, the Museum of Memorable Trees invites visitors to explore personal memories and imaginative tales inspired by the trees that shape our world.
Hand Cranked Tunes Duo
14th March | Cruises Street
Follow the charming melodies of this roaming duo as they wind their magical hand‑cranked music box through Limerick’s busy city streets. Their treasure trove of traditional Irish tunes adds a delightful soundtrack to an afternoon stroll.
Tales of St. Patrick by the Limerick Fireside
14th, 15th & 17th March | Kilmallock & Limerick City | Free (Pre‑booking required)
Gather around for an enchanting journey into the legends of Ireland’s patron saint. This traditional storytelling experience blends song, verse and interactive narration, bringing ancient folklore to life in a way that captivates both children and adults. A warm, intimate cultural gem.
‘Go Fly Your Kite’ Workshops
14th March | Harvey’s Quay Bandstand
Colour, creativity and sky‑high fun combine in this hands‑on workshop where kids can design and build their very own shamrock‑inspired kites. A vibrant activity perfect for budding young artists and adventurers!
Magic Windows: Make Your Own Stained Glass Art
14th March | King John’s Castle
Inspired by the luminous works of Harry Clarke, children and families can create their very own colourful stained‑glass artworks using acetate and natural light. A magical blend of art, history and imagination set within Limerick’s most iconic fortress.
Irish National Clown Orchestra: One Step Beyond
15th March | Limerick Milk Market
The clown big‑band is back! The Irish National Clown Orchestra brings a whirlwind of high‑energy music, comedy and theatrical delight in a brand‑new street show. Expect big laughs, bigger sounds and unforgettable characters.
For the most up-to-date details, check out Limerick.ie/StPatricksFestival and Limerick St. Patrick’s Festival social media Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
