Unexpected Places With Big St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You don’t have to be Irish to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but it doesn’t hurt!”

And honestly, they have a point.

Every year on March 17th, people around the world celebrate the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Affectionately known as St. Paddy’s Day, this day is celebrated far beyond Irish shores. 

Of course it’s a holiday vigorously celebrated in Ireland, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, but leprechaun footprints and green drinks have been spotted in various other countries around the world every year on 17 March.

Let’s explore some unexpected places where the Irish spirit thrives.

Montserrat, Caribbean

Montserrat hosts the biggest St. Patrick’s Day festivities outside of Ireland running for 10 days from the 17th of March.

With Irish roots since the 17th century, the island blends Caribbean, African, and Irish influences.

Nicknamed the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean”, festivities feature Irish dancing, concerts, parades, a kite festival, calypso competitions, and a Heritage Day Feast.

A unique shamrock-shaped stamp in your passport marks the occasion.

Read more: Teach English in Jamaica

Dubai, UAE

This cosmopolitan city gives the go-ahead for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the most literal way—iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai Frame light up green!

McGettigan’s Factory at The Palm’s Saturday morning Overtime Brunch has become a tradition, but adds a special St. Patrick’s edition. You can enjoy endless Irish dishes, drinks and entertainment while taking in the impressive Dubai skyline. 

Not to be outdone, The Irish Village offers a cosy authentic vibe with traditional Irish charm.

These events are just two of many across Dubai serving up St. Patrick’s traditions in the heart of the desert. And if you’re considering teaching in Dubai, you’ll discover a vibrant lifestyle blending tradition with modernity.

Read more: Teach English in the UAE

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo hosts Asia’s largest Irish festival on March 16th and 17th. Picture leprechauns, bagpipes, Irish dancing and even an oyster festival flooding the streets.

This two-day extravaganza which started in 1992 to introduce Irish culture to Japan has morphed into a colourful street party you won’t want to miss.

Read more: Teach English in Tokyo

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Spotting a leprechaun in Buenos Aires may seem strange but it’s guaranteed during a costume party that is part of a week-long festival known as Fiesta de San Patricio (St. Patrick’s Day). The largest Irish community in South America showcases its heritage with colourful parades and lively street parties.

It features an exciting mix of tango and Irish dance, fun family activities like balloon sculpting, and delicious Argentinian-Irish food offerings, as well as captivating Irish folktales.

Many foreigners enjoy the Buenos Aires Pub Crawl which stops at various bars and pubs for an unforgettable experience.

Read more: Teach English in Argentina

Lagos, Nigeria

Experience St Patrick’s Day with African flair. The energetic African drums set the rhythm while night clubs pulse with Irish-themed parties.

People in Lagos celebrate the day unconventionally with smaller parades, a bold mix of Irish clothing with African prints, and enchanting Irish storytelling.

Local organisations seize the chance to host charity events.

Read more: Teach in Nigeria

Brussels, Belgium

The Embassy of Ireland hosts an annual St. Patrick’s Day programme, while the Irish in Europe Association organizes the Brussels Saint Patrick’s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions, which celebrates Irish culture.

You can expect to see the much-visited Manneken Pis statue decked out in traditional Irish clothing.

Sports fans can try Irish sports like Gaelic football, hurling and camogie, then ditch their sports gear for a suit and tie at the St. Patrick’s Day Ball.

Music lovers can listen to traditional Irish music at any Irish pub across the city.

A parade kicks off at the historic Les Halles Saint Géry where arts and crafts, concerts, and cultural performances can be enjoyed.

Read more:  Teach in Belgium

Clearly there are many countries that celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with each adding their unique signature.

Whether you’re Irish or simply love a good party, if you’d like to experience one of these St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, why not get a TEFL qualification? Immersing yourself in a new culture will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Ready to get started? Check out our TEFL  courses  to find the perfect course for you, and check our Jobs Board for exciting teaching opportunities worldwide.