There's often little better way for a backpacker to experience a country than by attending one of its domestic festivals. And nowhere is this likely to be so true than in the case of Ireland and St Patrick's Day.
The big day itself is often celebrated as a three, four or five-day festival leading up to the March 17th event, ensuring that this national holiday is given its full due. The only sensible recourse is to book into a cheap hostel in Dublin [http://www.hostelbeds.com/dublin/], and let the whole glorious spectacle erupt around you!
Donning the time-honored green clothing and shamrock for the ultimate of Gaelic celebrations promises access to a wealth of themed artisan events, culminating in parades that see cities bursting at their seams with excitement. Of course, there's also plenty of Irish food and drink -- notably Guinness -- to keep travelers sustained throughout.
Dublin celebrations
The country's capital has by far and away the most famous celebration of Ireland's patron saint. With an already thriving nightlife and bars along the banks of the River Liffey, in addition to a wealth of tourist attractions, the stage is most definitely set for a soiree of grand proportions.
But with the event often attracting in excess of half a million attendees from across the globe, accommodation can be hard to come by, so it is often worth booking in advance. Finding a cheap hostel in Dublin [http://www.hostelbeds.com/dublin/] close to the parade route, or as close as possible to the famous central river itself will also contribute to a more hassle-free festival.
It's also highly recommended to plan a rough itinerary before the trip. Many of the best comedy, theatre, dance and music events should be booked in advance, as places are likely to fill up fast.
Cork
But for those too slow off the mark to bag the budget deals in Dublin, the county of Cork promises a rival menagerie of celebrations.
Cork hostels are cheaper than in the capital, Dublin, and it's likely that there will be more places available on a budget for those keen on being at the heart of the action. International access to Cork is also good, boasting Ireland's third largest airport behind Dublin and Shannon.
Cork celebrations, as with those in Dublin, take place in close proximity to the City's River Lee. Marching bands, dancers, street performers and themed floats all add to the carnival atmosphere, with Cork's famed entertainment venues offering up all manner of fantastic complementary events.
The big day itself is often celebrated as a three, four or five-day festival leading up to the March 17th event, ensuring that this national holiday is given its full due. The only sensible recourse is to book into a cheap hostel in Dublin [http://www.hostelbeds.com/dublin/], and let the whole glorious spectacle erupt around you!
Donning the time-honored green clothing and shamrock for the ultimate of Gaelic celebrations promises access to a wealth of themed artisan events, culminating in parades that see cities bursting at their seams with excitement. Of course, there's also plenty of Irish food and drink -- notably Guinness -- to keep travelers sustained throughout.
Dublin celebrations
The country's capital has by far and away the most famous celebration of Ireland's patron saint. With an already thriving nightlife and bars along the banks of the River Liffey, in addition to a wealth of tourist attractions, the stage is most definitely set for a soiree of grand proportions.
But with the event often attracting in excess of half a million attendees from across the globe, accommodation can be hard to come by, so it is often worth booking in advance. Finding a cheap hostel in Dublin [http://www.hostelbeds.com/dublin/] close to the parade route, or as close as possible to the famous central river itself will also contribute to a more hassle-free festival.
It's also highly recommended to plan a rough itinerary before the trip. Many of the best comedy, theatre, dance and music events should be booked in advance, as places are likely to fill up fast.
Cork
But for those too slow off the mark to bag the budget deals in Dublin, the county of Cork promises a rival menagerie of celebrations.
Cork hostels are cheaper than in the capital, Dublin, and it's likely that there will be more places available on a budget for those keen on being at the heart of the action. International access to Cork is also good, boasting Ireland's third largest airport behind Dublin and Shannon.
Cork celebrations, as with those in Dublin, take place in close proximity to the City's River Lee. Marching bands, dancers, street performers and themed floats all add to the carnival atmosphere, with Cork's famed entertainment venues offering up all manner of fantastic complementary events.