ST PATRICK'S BREAK IN CORK

The 2019 parade will take place on Sunday 17th March at 1.00pm.  Marvel at the spectacular performances, which will include arts, community and sporting groups from all over the city and county, along with specially commissioned giant art pieces, created by renowned street theatre companies. While the Parade kicks off in the heart of the City Centre, the festival continues on the Grand Parade and Bishop Lucey Park. Take a stroll through the festival market and sample Cork’s food culture as you enjoy some local trad music, live swing or the on street comedy. There will be a great selection of craft stalls to browse around or enjoy a pint of Guinness in Panorama Bistro & Terrace and take in the spectacular views of our culturally vibrant city.

5 Interesting Facts about the St Patrick’s Day which you might not know:

1. Why 17th of March?
The date marks the saint’s death in 461 in Saul, County Down. It was here that he had established his first church in a small and simple barn. He is buried in the grounds of Down Cathedral in Downpatrick and a memorial stone, made from local Mourne Mountain granite, marks his grave.

2. When was the first parade?
Did you know that first St Patrick’s Day parade was not held here in Ireland? It was held in Boston in the United States in 1737, followed by an “official” parade in New York in 1766. Ireland was a little further behind, our first parade was held in Waterford in 1903!

3. Was St Patrick really Irish?
No, he wasn’t originally born here. It is thought that St Patrick came from Wales or Scotland, where he was abducted at the age of 16 and brought to Northern Ireland as a slave. He was then sent to Slemish Mountain to herd sheep. On his escape, he had a vision and returned to Ireland to spread the word of Christianity until his death in 461.

4. Why do people wear green?
The wearing of the colour green only became a tradition in the 19th century. Did you know that up until then, the colour most commonly associated with St Patrick was actually blue!  It’s thought that the shift to green happened because of Ireland’s nickname “The Emerald Isle,” the green in the Irish flag and the shamrock.

5. What is the importance of the shamrock?

According to Irish legend, the saint used the three-leafed plant as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity when he was first introducing Christianity to Ireland.

There is so much of our beautiful city and county to explore, a member of our team will always be happy to plan your #PureCork experience. All you need to do is book your #StayUnique luxurious experience at the award-winning The Montenote Hotel where you, our customer is our priority.

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