Categories: Things to do, food & drink, accommodation

Celebrations at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens  

Head to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens on Sunday 15th March for a celebration of traditional storytelling and Irish music with renowned storyteller Eamonn Keenan and musician Aodán Mac Seafraidh. This annual event is sure to be a fun filled day for the whole family. 

There will be a special 10-minute performance at 11:00am in the Castle forecourt (behind the courthouse) by the Cedar Rapids Metro Marching Band, an award-winning group of students travelling from Iowa, USA, back in Ireland for the third time. Be sure to give them a warm Irish welcome before they head off to their St Patrick’s Day parade! 

St Patrick’s Day at the Races 

If you’re after something a little different, the Bluegrass St Patrick’s Day Race at Down Royal Racecourse delivers a thrilling day out. With live racing, food and hospitality on Tuesday 17th March, it’s a lively way to celebrate the holiday with friends or family. 

Shamrock Presentation Parade in Hillsborough  

For the first time ever, the 2nd Battalion the Royal Irish Regiment St. Patrick’s Day Parade will march through Hillsborough village. Starting at 10am at Beechlawn School to Hillsborough Court, visitors can enjoy the music, marching and watch the traditional shamrock presentation on the big screen. 

Ceíle, Community & Culture  

There is a full range of initiatives across Lisburn and Castlereagh, from Ceile dancing in Carryduff on Friday evening to Traditional Irish weaving workshops and Dinosaur Petting experiences for the whole family on Saturday 15th March.

Just a short jig away, the annual St Patrick’s Tea Dance will take place from 1pm – 4pm in Market Square, where you can enjoy live music from local favourite Housty along with wonderful Irish and Highland dancing performed by talented local dancers.  

Live entertainment at historic village pubs 

Of course, a great day must be complimented by good food and music to soothe the soul. Check out Lisburn & Castlereagh’s many welcoming hotels, pubs and eateries, such as the Hillside in Hillsborough, Lily’s in Glenavy and La Mon Country House Hotel to enjoy traditional Irish food, entertainment and a perfectly poured pint of Guinness  

Plan your visit and find out more at visitlisburncastlereagh.com