In Pictures: Pints and parades as revellers say ‘slainte’ to St Patrick

The patron saint of Ireland is celebrated on March 17.

Published 12 hours ago

Last updated 12 hours ago

Ireland made sure it was not left out of an event that is now truly global as revellers marked the feast day of the island’s patron saint St Patrick in the usual way.

Crowds took to the streets in cities and towns including Dublin, Belfast and Athy in Co Kildare as pageants unfolded with Irish dancers and leprechaun costumes in evidence.

Marching bands from North America and Austria joined the festivities in the Irish capital while many raised a glass in celebration.

There were also events in Galway, Limerick, Cork, Belfast and Londonderry.

St Patrick’s Day Parade – Belfast — People attending the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA)

In Dublin, members of the Defence Forces and An Garda Siochana played their part in festivities while in Athy, Irish step dancers led the parade.

St Patrick’s Day Parade – Dublin — Members of the Garda Mounted Support Unit in Dublin (Evan Treacy/PA)

St Patrick’s Day Parade – Athy — Colourful performers take part in the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Athy (Niall Carson/PA)

Dressed in green, Kate wore a shamrock as she met service personnel.

Royal visit to the Irish Guards — Kate with Barry Loughlin, Georgia Willis and four-year-old Regan Loughlin, as she joins guardsmen and their families in the junior ranks dining hall (Eddie Mulholland/Daily Telegraph/PA)