Parades, Performances and Family Fun: dlr Announces Full Line-Up for St. Patrick’s Day 2026

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown is buzzing with excitement as we get ready for a vibrant St. Patrick’s Day full of colour, music, and celebration! Join us as the whole community comes together to mark Ireland’s national day in true style.

The Dún Laoghaire St Patrick’s Day Parade bursts into action at 11am, with a spectacular display of Irish culture, creativity, and community spirit. With over 50 groups taking part including Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the Irish Coast Guard, Ukulele Hooley, Twilight Twirlers, Samba Dance Brazil, the RNLI, Dún Laoghaire Tidy Towns, Goat Boat Tours, local sports clubs, dancers, and so many more - this year’s parade promises something for everyone. This year’s Grand Marshal is Olympian Cormac Comerford, and bringing the energy along the route will be MC Bobby Kerr, broadcaster and businessman.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said:

“We are delighted to announce Glenageary native Cormac Comerford as Grand Marshal for the Dún Laoghaire Parade. Fresh off the slopes from the Winter Olympics, Cormac brings a remarkable local success story to the heart of our celebrations. Ireland’s most accomplished male alpine skier, he first honed his skills just up the road with the Ski Club of Ireland in Kilternan, a testament to the sporting spirit and opportunities within our county. Cormac is an outstanding ambassador for Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown and for the fast‑growing sport of skiing, and we are proud to welcome him home to lead this year’s festivities”.

After the parade, the celebrations keep rolling! St Patrick himself will be ready for fun photo opportunities at the Tourist Information Kiosk beside Meadows & Byrne, the perfect chance to capture a memory. And keeping the energy high, DJ Gordo will be spinning some lively tunes to get everyone dancing!

This fantastic community celebration is proudly funded by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Dún Laoghaire Business Association, and Core Credit Union, with support from the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Chamber.

There’s even more to enjoy! The LÉ Samuel Beckett will sail into Dún Laoghaire Harbour and open to the public for free onboard tours (times to be confirmed). Step aboard and explore one of Ireland’s impressive naval vessels - no booking required, just come along on the day. Please note that queues are expected, as this is always a hugely popular attraction!

Make a day of it, with a browse through the CoCo Markets and be sure to drop into the brand-new Roots café at the dlr LexIcon, which will also be open and ready to welcome visitors.

In Stepaside, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade will begin at 2.30pm, featuring a vibrant mix of nearly 40 participating groups and more than 3,000 people taking part. Spectators can look forward to dancers, musicians, sporting clubs, choirs, youth bands, floats, vintage cars, Scouts, Girl Guides, schools, and much more, with a wonderful variety of cultures represented throughout the parade. There will also be a Fun Fair in the Village with lots of rides, and Food Trucks with a variety of options for everyone.

The Parade starts at 2:30pm at the DLR All Weather Pitches (D18 XN84) on Enniskerry Road and will travel along the Enniskerry Road to Stepaside Village and finish at Kilgobbin Lane just before Belarmine Roundabout.

Further information can be found on their facebook page

This event is supported and funded by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and the Stepaside Business Association.

For those seeking a bit of mischief, Blackrock Park will host its much‑loved Leprechaun Chase, book your tickets now! Hosted by the Blackrock Business Association, this year’s event promises even more excitement and entertainment for families and friends alike.

Following the Chase, the festivities continue in Blackrock Village with a full line-up of activities for the whole community, including storytelling sessions, magic shows, live music, face painting, balloon shaping, and plenty more. Grab a bite to eat in one of the local restaurants!

Don't miss out on the countywide St. Patrick's Day celebrations across the County! Join us for fun, flair, and Irish spirit. Follow us on social or on our website dlrcoco.ie for regular updates. Get ready!  It’s going to be a St. Patrick’s Day to remember!