Newry and Downpatrick Getting Ready to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day 2026

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is getting ready and looking forward to once again delivering a vibrant programme of St Patrick’s Day events in Newry and Downpatrick for residents and visitors of all ages.

As the home of St Patrick, the district holds a unique place in Ireland’s cultural story and this year’s programme reflects that proud heritage while creating opportunities for communities to come together to celebrate creativity, culture and local talent.

The celebrations are especially significant in Downpatrick as they coincide with the 25th anniversary of The Saint Patrick Centre. The Centre is the world’s only permanent exhibition dedicated to St Patrick and plays a key role in telling the story of his life, legacy and lasting connection to the town, including St Patrick’s grave and its historic pilgrim routes.

At the heart of the celebrations on Tuesday 17 March will be festival parades in both Newry and Downpatrick, accompanied by live music, street entertainment and markets, running from 12noon to 4pm. The Council is also inviting community groups, schools and organisations to take part in the parades, helping to ensure the celebrations continue to reflect the creativity and diversity of the district.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said,
“St Patrick’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate who we are as a district. Our 2026 programme brings together music, heritage, creativity and community spirit. We look forward to welcoming everyone to enjoy the parades, performances and activities taking place and to share in a day of celebration and culture.”

In Newry, the festival parade and celebrations will be supported by live performances from Clonduff Comhaltas, Dara Hart and The Nooks.

Newry and Mourne Museum will host a range of family-focused activities including Jumping Clay workshops, face painting and glitter tattoos, as well as sensory play sessions delivered by Mini Explorers. An Artisan Market at Newry Market will add to the festive atmosphere in the city centre.

In Downpatrick, the parade will include a new themed float to mark The Saint Patrick Centre’s 25th anniversary, celebrating the Centre’s role in interpreting the story and the town’s unique place within this heritage.

In addition to the parade, Downpatrick’s celebrations will feature a main stage programme including performances by Clann Uí hUiginn, Celtic Storm and Pure Blarney.

An Artisan Market will take place at the Grove Car Park at St Patrick’s Square, complemented by arts and crafts sessions, face painting, St Brigid’s Cross making, Irish traditional music and a series of street performances in and around Down Arts Centre.

Down County Museum will host a full programme of Irish dancing, musical performances and street entertainers, along with face painting, arts and crafts and sensory play sessions delivered by Mini Explorers.

A wider programme of cultural activity will also take place at Down Arts Centre throughout March, including live music and film screenings, extending the St Patrick’s celebrations beyond the main day.

In addition to the St Patrick’s Day celebrations, the Council is also offering residents the opportunity to discover even more exceptional experiences on their doorstep at its Hidden Gems at Home event. Taking place on Saturday 14 March 2026 from 12noon to 4.30pm at Down County Museum, this dedicated tourism showcase will highlight the people, places and lesser-known attractions that make Mourne Gullion Strangford so special. From outdoor adventures and heritage experiences to local food, drink and accommodation providers, the event will inspire residents to explore and support local tourism across the district.

Further details and the full St Patrick’s Day 2026 programme will be available on the dedicated St Patrick’s Day pages of the Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford website: https://www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/stpatricksfestival