In pictures: Crowds celebrate St Patrick's Day across Ireland

"St Patrick's Day was about celebrating Irish achievements, while Karen Van Brakel from Holland said it was about the Irish value of bringing people together. Two school friends from the Philippines, Anna May and Primrose, were dressed in green T-shirts and sparkly shamrock face paint."

"The capital's parade - comprising 12 large floats and more than 3,000 participants - ran from Parnell Square in the north of the city, down Dublin's main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, and ends at the Cuffe Street/Kevin Street junction on the south side of the city."

"This is my first time seeing a big parade, so I would like to experience the culture of Ireland, plus I think St Patrick is one of the most famous festivals. He loves the marching bands and the flags."

St Patrick's Day celebrations took place across multiple Irish cities including Dublin, Belfast, and Cork, with Killarney creating a special float honoring native actress Jessie Buckley's Oscar achievement. Dublin's parade was the largest, featuring 12 floats and more than 3,000 participants traveling from Parnell Square down O'Connell Street. The parade included performances from groups like Macnas, Bui Bolg, and Spraoi, with the Rotunda Hospital contributing a float designed by ArtFX. Attendees, including families and international visitors from the Philippines and Holland, gathered early to secure viewing spots. Participants wore traditional green attire, leprechaun hats, and shamrock face paint. Attendees expressed that the celebration represented Irish values of community, cultural pride, and bringing people together.

Read at Irish Independent