Every year on March 17, Achill Island, the pearl of Ireland’s west coast, transforms itself into the epicenter of St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Here, the festivities are more than just a parade: they reflect an age-old tradition rooted in local history. Since 1882, this unique celebration has brought the island to life with the sound of drums and bagpipes, uniting locals and visitors in a festive and memorial communion. An event far removed from Dublin’s Temple Bar, it’s definitely worth experiencing at least once in your life!
The history of this tradition dates back to the late 19th century, when a local priest wished to commemorate the 1,550th anniversary of St. Patrick’s arrival in Ireland. He invited the Achill Island community to celebrate the event in a new way.
Inspired by this call, a group of determined men made a handcrafted drum and organized the first procession. Thus was born a custom which, over the decades, has become a fixture in the island calendar.
At dawn, a drumbeat echoes across the valleys and mountains, heralding the start of a day like no other. This deep, haunting sound marks the launch of the festivities, awakening the island and bringing its inhabitants together in an atmosphere of palpable excitement.
The highlight of the day is the grand parade, which begins in front of Pollagh church. Dressed in colorful costumes and imbued with the spirit of the festival, participants then begin a procession across the island, following a traditional route all the way to Dookinella.
This is no mere parade, but a truly lively performance in which music plays a central role. More than 120 musicians, equipped with drums and bagpipes, accompany the march, flooding the air with the haunting sounds of traditional Irish music. Every note resonates in the wild landscape of Achill Island, transporting spectators to another time, another world.
But this celebration is not just about joy and music. It’s also a time for remembering and sharing. Along the way, the procession often stops in front of the homes of loved ones who have passed away, a moving tribute to those who have shaped the island’s history. These pauses are moments of recollection, where memories and emotions mingle in a profound respect for past generations.
Beyond the parade, Achill Island vibrates all day long to the rhythm of the festivities. The pubs, the beating hearts of the community, are filled with laughter, song and lively conversation. Here, friends present and absent are toasted in an atmosphere of conviviality and sharing. Impromptu dancing, upbeat musical tunes and human warmth make for an unforgettable day.
On March 17 on Achill Island, St. Patrick’s Day is much more than a holiday. It’s a living celebration of Irish identity, a tradition handed down with pride through the generations. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor just passing through, you can’t help but be touched by the energy, emotion and beauty of this timeless day.
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