Geneva Pattison
The 2021 virtual lineup for the 2021 St. Patrick’s festival has been announced. The festival will run for 6 days and nights online and will be viewable across Ireland and the world. Due to the ongoing prevalence of Covid-19 and it’s variants, the in person events to celebrate could not take place.
The theme for the online event this year is “Dúisigh Éire” or “Awaken Ireland”, as mentioned on the festival’s website they are inviting everyone to “throw off the long, dark months and rise to embrace the brighter days ahead”.
Events can be viewed on the website https://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/ and from March 12th-17th, you can tune in and watch on the festival’s own dedicated channel SPF TV, also available through the site. Live streaming will be available in real time and available also for viewing later on the SPF online player.
the upcoming performances for both young and old include Irish Legends with famed author and storyteller Eddie Lenihan, exciting dances from Bolivian dance troupe Alma Boliviana, comedy with Foil Arms and Hog, musical performances, circus acts, yoga, poetry films and weaving workshops to name just a few. Of course there’ll be céilís galore, traditional Irish music and ballads, Sean-Nós dancing and plenty of history on show online during the festival’s 6 days and nights.
Just like last year, the public will have the chance to take part in the virtual Patrick’s Day parade from the comfort of their own homes. People are encouraged to film and post their parade contribution to social media platforms using the hashtag #RTEVirtualParade, for a chance to be featured on television and viewed by millions all over the world.
This year’s St. Patrick’s festival will also see an historic partnership with
Oireachtas TV take place. The television channel that usually broadcasts the dealings within the Houses of the Oireachtas will beam different events into people’s homes, from the various acts taking part in this St. Patrick’s Day Festival.
As seen on the festival’s website, on the topic of the partnership Ceann Comhairle and Chairperson of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Seán Ó Fearghaíl TD, said:
“On behalf of the Houses of the Oireachtas, I am delighted that we are able to support and provide access to the Oireachtas TV platform for the St. Patrick’s Festival in this innovative way. Music, art and storytelling have always played a huge role in the lives of Irish people, helping us celebrate in times of success and uplifting our spirits in times of despair. St. Patrick’s Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the very best of our unique heritage and culture. Although we cannot physically be together to do so this year, it is reassuring to know that when we combine our public resources and our creativity, we can deliver a wealth of celebration both here and abroad.”
Visit the St. Patrick’s Day Festival website linked below for more information.
