In America, St. Patrick’s Day is a huge holiday, so you can only imagine what it is like in Ireland – parades, parties, crowds of people out on the town, the whole nine! Usually, back at home in America I don’t really celebrate the holiday or do anything special besides possibly going out with friends, so I was definitely looking forward to celebrating the holiday here in Ireland. So when I asked some of my Irish friends for recomendations on where to go for the day, of course the answer was Dublin! Dublin is known for having the streets filled with people celebrating, a great parade for all to see, and just an overall great time with an amazing atmoshpere. While that all sounded exciting and invigorating, and I must admit I know I would have enjoyed the experience. I decided to go against the tourist-like route of celebrating and soak up the experience of what Waterford had to offer.
First, myself, Britt, and our teammate Cathy attended Waterford’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade in the city center. It was great seeing the whole community come together to celebrate this holiday, as well as highlight members of thier community. Various local sports teams and organizations walked in the parade, proudly displaying thier love for thier sport and community – I even saw some of my girls that I coach on Saturday’s in kitten club. To soak up the experience even more, after the pararde we walked around the city center taking in all the celebration and sense of pride the community had. From seeing children with their faces painted green, to people carrying around Irish flags, it was amazing to see the community come together and celebrate a holiday I have not really participated in before; and provide me with another opportunity to become emersed in the Irish culture.
