St. Patrick’s Weekend: Fun Things To Do In Cork

Get the shamrocks ready, because Paddy’s Day is just around the corner. Yes, it’s that time of the year again, when you get to celebrate all things Irish!

With festivities taking place throughout the weekend, it’s always a good idea to plan your St. Patrick’s celebrations in advance. Well, lucky for you, we’ve made a list of fun things to do in Cork to make the most of your St. Patrick’s weekend, including everything from parades to outdoor fun at our Forest Adventure Parks in Ireland!

Let’s get the celebrations started!

Watch the Parade in Cork City

Every year, thousands of spectators gather along the main streets of Cork City to watch the annual St. Patrick’s Parade on March 17. Be ready for a lineup of amazing floats, marching bands, dance performances, and joyful community spirit. Make sure to get into the city in plenty of time to get a good viewing point as it’s going to be busy. If you want to avoid Cork City, there are many smaller parades to enjoy in Cork towns such as Ballincollig and Midleton.

In the days before the parade, there are also a number of activities to be enjoyed as part of the St. Patrick’s festival, including musical performances, workshops, and shows. 

And if you’re interested in celebrating Paddy’s Day in other parts of Ireland, check out our blogs about Things To Do In Dublin During St. Patrick’s Weekend and Fun Things To Do This St. Patrick’s Weekend in Boyle, Roscommon.

A dog wearing a green hat, large green bow tie, and green tinsel stands on a street in Cork next to a person’s legs, ready to celebrate St. Patrick's Weekend.

Head Outdoors for the St. Patrick’s Weekend

Looking for activities to do during the St. Patrick’s weekend? Then head outdoors for some adventure at Zipit! Our Farran Park Zipit Adventure Park, located just 15 minutes from Cork City, involves three hours of treetop fun, including swinging and climbing obstacles and, of course, what Zipit is most famous for ziplining! We are open throughout the St. Patrick’s weekend, and since our courses are suitable for anyone ages 7 and above, you can make the best memories with your friends and family! Make sure you pre-book your tickets to avoid last-minute disappointments.

After your adventure, you can grab a coffee, go for a walk around Farran Woods, and go deer or bird watching. Because what better season to go for a stroll than spring? 

You can learn more about Paddy’s Day and how to celebrate at our treetop park with our blog, St. Patrick’s Day in the Treetops: A Family Adventure at Zipit!

Zip-lining under a clear blue sky amidst lush green trees in Cork is the perfect family-friendly adventure, with the sun shining brightly through the branches for unforgettable mid-term break memories.

Enjoy Cork’s Culinary Delights

The ‘food capital of Ireland’, Cork’s cuisine will leave you wanting more! With an endless list of fantastic restaurants in and around Cork City, you won’t be too far from a delicious dish. Check out the famous English Market for some of Cork’s best produce or the relatively new Marina Market, where some of Cork’s best food providers offer takeaway options to enjoy as you stroll through the city or in the trendy setting of the market itself.

Artisanal cheeses, fresh fish, and smoked meat are all on the menu in Cork, offering you a taste of what makes this city so special. And with everything from high-end restaurants to gourmet gastropubs, you’ll be in for a feast over St. Paddy’s weekend!

Jars of preserves and honey with colorful fabric lids are displayed on a wooden counter above a sign that reads "Shopping Baskets," perfect for those exploring Things To Do In Cork this St. Patrick's Weekend.

Explore the Beauty of West Cork 

A road trip around West Cork tops many bucket lists. So why not try it for yourself over the St. Patrick’s weekend? Take in some of Ireland’s best beaches, towns and attractions as you travel West.

West Cork is all about dramatic coastlines, quiet coves, and charming seaside villages. The Wild Atlantic Way runs through it, offering breathtaking drives and endless photo ops. Make a stop at Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point, or spend the day relaxing at Inchydoney Beach, one of the most beautiful in Ireland. 

For some unique experiences, you can go night kayaking in the bioluminescent waters of Lough Hyne, hike along the Beara way, or go dolphin and whale watching!

Three hikers explore the Great Outdoors, walking along a rocky, grassy trail between two hills under a partly cloudy sky. Perfect for a Bank Holiday Weekend adventure.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning already to explore Irish culture in its truest forms in Cork this St. Patrick’s weekend! And make sure to book ahead to secure your spot at our Zipit Forest Adventure Park for some thrilling outdoor fun. If you have any questions about our course, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team!