‘Roots’ revealed as theme for St Patrick’s Festival 2026
Eva Osborne
The programme and theme for this year's St Patrick's Festival have been announced.
The theme for the festival, which will take place across Dublin from March 14th-17th, is 'Roots'.
Organisers said this year's theme aims to celebrate "where we come from, what grounds us, and how we continue to grow together".
St Patrick's Festival will see 150 artists across the city offer music, street theatre, dance, comedy, craft, and participatory performance.
The festival will culminate in the National St Patrick's Day Parade on March 17th, featuring 12 large-scale floats and over 3,000 participants.
Throughout the four days of the festival, audiences can expect music on the streets with performances from Mr Wilson’s Second Liners and Acid Granny Compact; moments of Gaeilge with Áine Gallagher’s A Cup of Focals; and street comedy favourites including Garda by Colm O’Grady and the St Patrick’s Seagulls.
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said: “St Patrick’s Festival is one of the great celebrations of Ireland, and Dublin is proud to be its host.
"The 2026 programme captures the very best of our national spirit — creativity, welcome and community — while reflecting my theme of Celebrating Dublin: the stories of our city, the strength of our neighbourhoods, and the new voices that continue to shape our capital.
"I’m proud that this festival brings people together and showcases Ireland, through Dublin, to audiences at home and around the world.”
Chief executive of Fáilte Ireland, Caroline Bocquel, said this year's theme of 'Roots' captures the essence of what the festival represents - "a powerful celebration of Ireland’s heritage, identity and shared story".
"It presents an opportunity to showcase the very best of Irish culture, entertainment and creativity on a global stage, while bringing people together from across Ireland and around the world to honour our connections, our traditions and the stories that continue to shape who we are.
"We also look forward to supporting St Patrick’s Day festivals and activities nationwide, encouraging visitors to explore regional destinations over the long weekend."
