Small Bands Are Big Stars in Sligo on St. Patrick’s Day

Thinking about St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland conjures up raucous celebrations, crowded streets, and revelers decked out in vibrant green. And it’s true…St. Patrick’s Day here is an EVENT! But if you’re worried that your small band might get lost in the masses (or you simply didn’t anticipate a 3-year waitlist) consider a small town venue.  Small bands are big stars in Sligo on St. Patrick’s Day! 

The Charm of Small Town Sligo  

Small towns like Sligo feel just a bit more… magical. Quaint, colorful buildings and cobbled streets are tucked between a winding river and brilliant green landscapes. This stunning spot along the Wild Atlantic Way thrives on a lively arts and music scene and just feels like you would imagine Ireland might! 

On St. Patrick’s Day, ancient traditions, culture, and Irish pride are on full display. The community comes together to share laughs, food, music, dance, and the spirit of the celebration.  

Visitors to Sligo can really immerse themselves in the small-town Irish vibe. Here, it’s less about capitalizing on tourism and much more about making personal connections.  

St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Sligo 

Sligo on St. Patrick’s Day is a showcase all things Irish and a hub for live music! The festival hosts performances of all kinds, including collaborations between the Ceol na nÓg Orchestra and the Sligo Academy of Music. The academy’s commitment to encouraging young performers has made Sligo “the” place for emerging bands and artists. 

The Trad Trail is a recent addition to the festivities and features local musicians playing traditional music at venues throughout the town. 

And then, there’s the parade… 

The Sligo St. Patrick’s Day Parade 

The Sligo St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a feast for the senses! Creative, colorful floats, energetic dancers, community organizations, and LOTS of leprechauns share the parade route with spirited marching bands – like yours! 

The parade typically takes place on March 17th around noon and winds through jubilant crowds lining the streets. It’s free to enter and all are welcome to participate.  

Marching bands traveling internationally to take part are a welcome addition to the Sligo parade. It’s a fabulous opportunity to showcase your skills on a smaller scale without sacrificing the experience of Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day.  

Your small band will be welcomed like royalty and treated like international VIPs. 😉 

While You’re Here 

Your Sligo St. Patrick’s Day parade performance will be just one of the highlights of your trip. From ancient castles to rugged coastlines, there are countless adventures ahead! 

 Wild Atlantic Way 

Sligo’s coastline is also along the Wild Atlantic Way, boasting unspoiled beaches beneath towering mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, tranquil canals, iconic landmarks, and so much more. Explore as much or as little of this 1500-mile coastal way as your itinerary allows! 

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery 

County Sligo has more than 5,000 prehistoric archeological sites, more than any other European country.  Among these is the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, which is the oldest and densest concentration of Neolithic tombs in Ireland.  There are 35+ tombs constructed nearly 6,000 years ago here to explore. 

Lough Key Forest and Activity Park 

At Lough Key Forest and Activity Park you’ll find fresh air and abundant fun! Check out the 47 rooms filled with puzzles and tasks at Boda Borg, take a self-guided tour through 19th century underground tunnels or aim a little higher on the Tree Canopy Walk.  

Ziplines, electric bikes, kayaking and boating are all on the agenda at lovely Lough Key Forest. 

Connemara Region 

Connemara is a stunning region in the northwest corner of County Galway. It’s an area of savage beauty populated by must-see attractions. 

Conquer the awe-inspiring  Cliffs of Moher on the rugged West Clare coast. Stunning vistas and crashing waves at the abrupt edge of this vertical limestone bluff will steal your breath!

Explore the majestic castles and abbeys of Connemara like Aughnanure, Clifden, Kylemore, and Ballynahinch. These fairytale-like structures dot the beautiful landscape and shine beside glistening lakes.

Westport 

On the southeast corner of Clew Bay is picturesque Westport. It’s known for its gorgeous landscapes, friendly people, charming shops, and excellent food scene.  

Students will love exploring the colorful, historic streets and charming structures that capture Irish life so beautifully! 

National Famine Memorial 

Just a few minutes from Westport is the National Famine Memorial, the largest bronze sculpture in Ireland. John Behan created the sculpture, entitled “Coffin Ship,” to symbolize the 1845-51 Irish Potato Famine.  

The rigging has skeletons incorporated throughout  as an eerie reminder of lost lives… a definite must-see! 

Travel Like A VIP! 

When you’re ready to plan a big trip for your small band, march in Sligo on St. Patrick’s Day. And when you plan with Kaleidoscope Adventures, you’ll be a VIP from start to finish. 

Count on Kaleidoscope Adventures for 30+ years of trusted experience, impeccable customer service, and meticulous attention to detail. 

Most importantly, you’ll have the advantage of an Irish-based team working on your behalf to ensure that your marchers are big stars! 

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PLANNING YOUR BAND’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PERFORMANCE IN SLIGO