St. Patrick’s Day is a time for Irish people all over the world to come together, raise a glass, and feel that connection to home. If you find yourself in Spain on or around March 17th, you won’t be short of places to celebrate. From parades to smaller gatherings in Irish pubs, Spain has embraced the day in a way that brings people together to celebrate Ireland, no matter where they’re from.

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Cabo Roig Parade: The Biggest St. Patrick’s Day Event in Spain

One of the biggest celebrations happens in Cabo Roig, on the Costa Blanca. Every year, the main strip is taken over by a sea of green as thousands of people come out to watch the parade. There are marching bands, dancers, floats, and, of course, plenty of Irish flags. It’s a day when the local Irish community, along with plenty of Spanish and international friends, come together to enjoy the music, the laughter, and maybe a few pints along the way.

This year’s parade takes place on Sunday March 16th at 3pm for more information check out their Facebook page.

A Week of Irish Celebrations in Madrid

In Madrid, St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just a one-day event. The city hosts ‘Ireland Week,’ packed with live music, Irish dance, and even film screenings. One of the highlights is the big parade on March 15 at 5pm, where hundreds of pipers take to the streets to play tunes that instantly transport you back to Ireland. Throughout the week, there are open training sessions for Gaelic football, live U2 tribute concerts, and traditional Irish music and dance performances in the metro stations. Madrid even lights up its famous Cibeles fountain in green for the occasion. And for something a little different, the famous San Ginés Chocolatería serves up its classic churros with a St. Patrick’s Day twist, they’re dyed green for the occasion! It’s a week filled with little reminders of home, right in the heart of Spain.

Green Shamrock Churros Image: Chocolatería San Ginés.

For a more laid-back celebration, the Spanish Irish Business Network (SIBN) hosts the 10th annual St. Patrick’s Day Picnic in Madrid. Held at Parque de la Cabilda in Hoyo de Manzanares on Sunday, March 16, this family-friendly event is open to all. Bring your own picnic, soak up the fresh air, and enjoy a bit of Irish culture with hurleys, rugby balls, tin whistles, or whatever keeps the spirit alive. Don’t forget to wear something green!

Mallorca, the Costa del Sol, and Beyond

Mallorca’s Santa Ponsa hosts another great celebration, bringing together locals and Irish residents for a festival full of music, food, and family-friendly fun. Down on the Costa del Sol, places like Benalmádena and Torremolinos mark the day with parades, live bands, and Irish dancing. Whether you’re looking for a big party or just a quiet moment to toast the day, there’s always somewhere to go.

From big cities to small towns, private businesses and local councils across Spain host events to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Like in Los Alcázares on the Costa Cálida, a full St. Patrick’s Day weekend is planned, featuring free concerts and more. Be sure to check your social media feeds, you might find a celebration happening near you!

Ireland and Spain: A Connection That Runs Deep

Ireland and Spain have a long history together, built on centuries of migration, trade, and shared traditions. From the Celtic influence in Galicia to the Irish who fled to Spain after the Flight of the Earls in the 1600s, the ties between the two countries have always been strong.

One of the biggest similarities is the people. Both the Irish and Spanish are known for being warm, welcoming, and always up for a chat. Whether it’s sharing tapas in Spain or a few pints in an Irish pub, social life in both countries revolves around good food, good company, and plenty of storytelling.

Even in music and dance, the connections are hard to miss. Some Flamenco moves, with their fast footwork and rhythmic beats, look a lot like Irish dancing. The energy and passion behind both styles come from the same love of telling stories through movement and music.

Spain has also become a second home for many Irish people over the years. Whether it’s walking the Camino de Santiago, exploring Galicia’s Celtic roots, or just soaking up the sunshine, there’s a natural connection that keeps drawing people back. It’s more than just shared history, it’s a friendship that’s lasted for generations.

A Day to Feel at Home, No Matter Where You Are

Being away from Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day can bring a mix of emotions. There’s the joy of celebrating with new friends in a different country, but also that little pang of homesickness when you think of parades back home, packed pubs, and the familiar sound of an Irish accent at every turn. But wherever you are in Spain, there’s a place to raise a glass, sing along to an old tune, and feel connected to home, even if just for a day.

How are you celebrating St. Patrick’s Day this year? Whether you’re heading to a big parade, joining a local event, or just raising a glass with friends, we’d love to hear about it! Drop your plans in the comments, and if there’s an event happening near you, feel free to share the details so others can join in the fun. 🍀

From all of us at The International Reporter, we wish you a very happy St. Patrick’s Day! Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh! 🍀

Main image: Facebook/The Trinity Bar Cabo Roig