Armagh City’s Home of St Patrick Festival returns for nine spectacular days next month, promising a unique programme of history, heritage and place in his chosen home from 10-18 March.
Featuring the best of music, art, theatre, film and dance across multiple venues, the Home of St Patrick Festival promises visitors from across the world an outstanding opportunity to reflect on his life, legacy and impact in a thrilling showcase of culture, entertainment and hospitality.
The Home of St Patrick Festival’s unique distinction – what sets it apart from every other world-wide celebration – is the relationship between programme and place and the resonance that this important city, its two cathedrals named after him, its landscape and the stunning Georgian backdrop it is famous for.
Firmly established as one of the UK and Ireland’s most authentic events to mark St Patrick’s enduring impact on the island of Ireland and the world, Armagh was Patrick’s chosen place where he began his Christian mission and his legacy lives on in this ancient, unique and beautiful place.
During the Festival, visitors can also explore Armagh County Museum and Armagh Robinson Library which house artefacts, collections, rare books and illuminated manuscripts which reflect the city’s leading role in early Christian Ireland. When he visited Armagh, Saint Patrick called it his ‘sweet hill’, and founded his first large stone church in 445AD.
Welcoming the launch of this year’s festival, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Margaret Tinsley said:
“Celebrating a deep and historic link with St Patrick, Armagh City is home to some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic places, including two stunning Cathedrals both named in his honour, the mystical Navan Fort & Centre and the iconic Armagh Robinson Library, Palace Demesne and Marketplace Theatre which play host to many of this year’s enthralling events.
“In a city that has always looked to the stars at the Armagh Planetarium and Observatory, bringing people together through art, literature, science and a sense that this is a place apart, Armagh City enjoys a creative spirit, drawing visitors every year through its ancient traditions. A home to artists, libraries, poets and scientists, it’s a place of innovation and mindfulness in equal measure and this year’s Home of St Patrick Festival reflects every element of these with plenty of family fun too.
“There are walks, talks, tours, music, song, comedy, dance and unlimited festival fun to entertain everyone, every day.”
View the full list of events happening at this year’s festival at www.visitarmagh.com/festivals
