Every year on 17 March, the world turns green as St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated across the globe, reaching far beyond the borders of Ireland. Parades, music, dance and the richness of Irish culture and traditions take centre stage during the festivities. The Netherlands also joins in the celebrations. In The Hague, a range of activities is once again on the agenda this year, including the Ireland Film Festival on 14 and 15 March. On Sunday 15 March, the Grote Markt in The Hague will turn green with a St. Patrick’s Festival filled with dance, music and Irish conviviality.
The story behind St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day finds its origins in the life of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. According to tradition, he was brought to Ireland as a young man and lived there for years in captivity. After escaping, he later returned to the island, where he played an important role in spreading Christianity and grew into one of the most influential figures in Irish history. Across the island, visitors can still explore sites connected to his life, from the hilltop of Slemish where he herded sheep, to Saul Church where he founded his first church, and Down Cathedral, his final resting place.
17 March marks the death of St. Patrick and originally began as a religious day of remembrance. Over the centuries, it evolved into a national celebration of Irish identity, heritage and culture. Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide with parades, music, dance and traditions, a festival that brings the warm and vibrant Irish spirit to life wherever it is marked. It offers a glimpse of Ireland itself: a lively explosion of music, folklore and warmth.
The Hague turns green – Ireland Film Festival
In recent years, Ireland has shone on the big screen and on television thanks to a series of award-winning films and productions, as well as the exceptional acting talent the island has produced. From rugged coastlines to tranquil villages, Ireland is a much-loved setting for filmmakers and a source of inspiration for travellers.
During the Ireland Film Festival on 14 and 15 March at Pathé Buitenhof in The Hague, film enthusiasts can enjoy a weekend of films shot in Ireland or featuring the Irish landscape as their backdrop. In total, nine productions will be screened, highlighting how film and destination seamlessly intertwine.
A special highlight is the screening of Whitetail, a Dutch production that chose the nature and surroundings of West Cork as the setting for the film. This drama thriller by Dutch director Nanouk Leopold combines a compelling story with Ireland’s striking natural scenery and will be shown during the festival. Whitetail will be screened on Sunday 15 March at 19:15.
The full film programme and tickets are available at www.ierland.nl/filmfestival.
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 March – St. Patrick’s Parade and activities at the Grote Markt
Alongside the Ireland Film Festival, there are many more St. Patrick’s Day activities taking place across the city. On Saturday, Hoender en Hop kicks off the weekend with Super Saturday Six Nations Rugby from 15:10 to 23:00, the ideal warm-up for a green weekend in the city.
On Sunday, the St. Patrick’s Parade will make its way from Koekamp to the Grote Markt, inviting everyone dressed in green to join between 12:30 and 13:00. The St. Patrick’s Day Festival then begins at the Grote Markt, featuring an extensive programme of live music, dance and entertainment.
The festival opens at 13:00 with the Fianna Phádraig Franco-Irish Pipe Band, followed by the official opening by the Irish Ambassador and the Mayor of The Hague. Throughout the afternoon and evening, Irish dance schools, live performances and energetic bands will take to the stage, including Kíla, Madra Salach, The Fogues and Acting The Maggot. The Burning Pubcrawlers will close the programme, which concludes around 23:00.
Performances will take place on the large outdoor stage at the Grote Markt, with additional acts at De Zwarte Ruiter. Brian Clifford will perform at De Boterwaag, which for the occasion will be transformed into ‘The Chipper’, styled as a food court.
Free hats and festive goodies will be distributed by O’Hara’s and Magners, and children can enjoy a free face-painting tent. St. Patrick’s Day in The Hague promises to be a celebration for all ages, filled with the warm and exuberant Irish atmosphere that is so widely cherished around the world.
The full schedule and all information about the activities can be found on the official St. Patrick’s Day Den Haag website:
https://stpatricksdaydenhaag.nl/
Ireland welcomes the world
With its iconic culture, breathtaking landscapes and renowned hospitality, Ireland remains a destination that not only attracts visitors but truly moves them. St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect moment to discover the island and to return for more.
About Tourism Ireland
Tourism Ireland is the organisation responsible for the international promotion of the island of Ireland as a tourist destination.
More information via www.ireland.com.