If there was ever a time to visit the Emerald Isle, it doesn’t get much better than Ireland in March.
If we are honest, there really isn’t a wrong time of the year to visit Ireland. There is always something going on, and the weather is never particularly good or particularly bad, so no matter the season, Ireland is a very accessible country.
However, if you want to get the most bang for your buck and experience as much Irish culture as you possibly can in a short space of time, then March (particularly for St. Patrick’s day) is probably the best time to visit Ireland.
For many Irish people, March is not only the beginning of spring and the month that signifies that Winter has ended. Ireland in March doesn’t just mean new life will start growing and that we are heading towards the summer, no.
Instead, for many Irish people, March is simply the month that has Paddy’s day – a day they look forward to all year round when they get to celebrate their Irishness… and maybe drink a bag of cans too while they are at it!
Weather – what to expect
At any time of year in Ireland, the weather is incredibly unpredictable, but this is especially the case when it comes to spring and autumn.
In recent memory, there have been days in March when we had snow, days when it rained so hard you wouldn’t want to leave your house, and then on the opposite side, we have seen March days when some people were walking around in t-shirts with no jumper or jacket.
As long as you come prepared for all outcomes, you will be perfect. Unfortunately, it won’t be one of the warmest places in Europe in March.
It will probably rain a bit, and you might even get a drop of snow, but you will also get a few sunny days.
It will be cool but probably won’t get very cold with the average temperatures in March being around eight to 12 degrees Celsius (46.4 to 53.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This is quite similar to Ireland in the autumn.
Events – what goes on
The main event in Ireland in March is always going to be St. Patrick’s day.
Whether you are in a big city in a big county or a small town in a small county, there will always be a St. Patrick’s day parade happening somewhere not too far away that you can go and watch.
However, suppose your main reason for visiting Ireland is to celebrate St. Patrick’s day. In that case, the St. Patrick’s day parade and festival in Dublin and the Home of St. Patrick Festival in Armagh and Down are probably the most exciting and atmospheric you can get.
Other events that typically happen in Ireland in March are the Innovation Summit Dublin, Dublin Comic-Con, and the Irish Travel Trade Show.
There will also always be book clubs, comedy clubs, and music gigs all around Ireland no matter what time of year you decide to visit.
What to bring – what you’ll need
When deciding what you need to bring to Ireland at any time of year, it can be quite confusing as you don’t know what to expect. However, when it comes to March and spring, there are a few things in particular that can come in handy.
A light rain jacket, hiking boots, a woolly hat, scarves and gloves, fluffy socks, and light layers such as fleeces and jumpers are all convenient things to have for doing most things outdoors.
Thermal under layers and quick-drying pants can also be handy if you plan on spending a lot of time doing hikes and other outdoor activities.
In terms of general clothing, Irish people dress somewhat casually, with lots of light layers and comfort being the most important thing for you to keep in mind.
It isn’t always essential, but if you want to bring some more formal clothes and outfits to wear out to dinner etc., then that is perfectly okay too.
Top tips – a local’s insight
Our top tip when visiting Ireland is not to panic and overthink when it comes to packing.
Suppose you don’t have much luggage room or are someone who tends to overpack.
In that case, you will be pleased to know that Ireland has lots of very affordable shops such as H&M and Penneys (Primark) where you can pick up any bits of clothing that you have either forgotten to pack or didn’t have room to bring.
Another top tip when coming to Ireland in March is to remember to bring your favourite green clothes. It is very common on St. Patrick’s day in Ireland for people to wear their favourite pieces of green clothing – so you may as well bring yours and join in on all the fun.
