Get Your Green On – Jump n Jive in 25 with Belmore Court & Motel this St Patrick’s Day!
In the heart of Enniskillen, the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are set to return with a fresh spirit for 2026, accompanied by an inspiring new theme, “Shamrocks & Shared Stories.” This year’s patrick’s day festivities are all about connection, bringing people together to celebrate authentic heritage, community, and the stories that make Ireland so special. At Belmore Court & Motel, guests can enjoy the perfect balance of vibrant town-centre energy and warm Irish hospitality.
As you plan your St Patrick’s Day escape, you can look forward to a weekend steeped in true Irish spirit, where music fills the streets, laughter echoes through traditional pubs, and generations gather to share memories old and new. From the colourful parade to a lively programme of entertainment and cultural events, Enniskillen is the perfect place to celebrate, reflect, and create new traditions together. Make St Patrick’s Day 2026 a celebration to remember at Belmore Court & Motel.
shamrocks & shared stories with project st patrick
Last year’s celebrations welcomed more than 5,000 visitors to our island town of Enniskillen, and for 2026, Project St Patrick are inviting guests to turn St Patrick’s Day into a memorable overnight or long-weekend escape. With so much happening across the town, extending your stay means you can experience every moment of the “Shamrocks & Shared Stories” programme at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.
We, at Belmore Court, are proud sponsors of this year’s St Patricks Celebrations! ✅
With Enniskillen Castle once again serving as the heart of the celebrations, the surrounding grounds and streets will come alive with live music, cultural performances, and engaging activities for all ages. Families can look forward to a wide range of free activities throughout the Bank Holiday weekend, while visitors of every generation can enjoy a vibrant showcase of Ireland’s rich musical heritage.
From storytelling and song to community gatherings and family-friendly attractions, St Patrick’s Day in Enniskillen promises a magical and meaningful experience for everyone.
st patrick's eve
Enniskillen castle | 16th March | 6:30pm - 9:30pm
The St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Enniskillen begin in spectacular style on St Patrick’s Eve with “Light the Lough,” a magical evening of free, family-friendly entertainment at Enniskillen Castle.
From 6.30pm, the Castle grounds will come alive with music, atmosphere and anticipation. A tempting selection of hot food vendors, fresh coffee, ice cream and a licensed horsebox bar will ensure there’s something to suit every taste as families and friends gather to celebrate together.
“Light the Lough” is the perfect way to begin your patrick’s day celebrations — an enchanting evening of music, community and shared stories set against the stunning backdrop of Enniskillen’s waterways.
Live music by the porter bellys
16th march | 6:30 - 9:30pm | enniskillen castle
From 6.30pm, the Castle grounds will come alive with music, atmosphere and anticipation for the music lovers. Enjoy a live open air rock-folk performance from The Porter Bellys, setting the tone for a night that blends contemporary energy with traditional spirit, completely Free of Charge!
St Patrick's Eve Flotilla
16th march | 6:30 - 9:30pm | enniskillen castle
As darkness falls, all eyes turn to Lough Erne for the centrepiece of the evening, a breathtaking illuminated Flotilla Event on St. Patrick’s Eve, featuring more than 40 boats gliding across the water. Organised by Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) – Lough Erne Branch, this special flotilla event is a shining tribute to Ireland’s rich waterways heritage and a highlight for visitors of all ages. Spectators can enjoy public viewing points along the riverfront or secure a prime vantage spot behind the historic barrack walls for an unforgettable view of the sparkling procession.
When: 6:15pm on 16th March
Where: On Lough Erne, from the Ardhowen to the Broadmeadow, passing underneath the west bridges.
st patricks day festivities
This year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Enniskillen are set to be more vibrant and creatively inspired than ever, thanks to extra funding from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. With extra support appointed to local groups, volunteers, festival committees, and council teams, families can expect workshops and creative sessions. Thanks to this, the festival is sure to be both visually stunning and deeply community-driven.
Celebrations in Enniskillen are set to be extra special this year, thanks to additional funding from Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, supplementing the festival’s usual support alongside contributions from Enniskillen BID and local businesses.
St. Patrick's Family Fun Day
Enniskillen castle | 17th March | 1pm - 3:30pm
The celebrations on St Patrick’s Day, 17th March, kick off with a vibrant Free Family Fun Day at Enniskillen Castle and the beautiful Broadmeadow. Set against the backdrop of Enniskillen’s most historic landmark, the afternoon promises a lively mix of entertainment, culture and outdoor adventure, perfectly reflecting this year’s “Shamrocks & Shared Stories” theme.
Enjoy an exciting programme of Family Friendly interactive activities and high-energy attractions designed to delight all ages, with a few free sweet treats adding to the festive atmosphere. For those eager to explore, there are opportunities to get out onto the waters of Lough Erne and even travel to a nearby island for active outdoor pursuits, making it a truly unique experience.
Live traditional music and dancing will fill the castle grounds throughout the afternoon, creating a joyful soundtrack to the festivities. Visitors can also take time to unwind with traditional storytelling inside Enniskillen’s oldest building, where local tales and folklore bring generations together in a more relaxed setting, emphasising the true meaning of Shamrocks & Shared Stories, the theme of this years celebrations.
With a wide range of catering vendors on site offering delicious food and refreshments, the Free Family Fun Day at Enniskillen Castle is the perfect way to spend a memorable afternoon celebrating community, culture and togetherness.
Pre Parade Entertainment
the hand me downs | the diamond | 1:30pm
Before the main parade gets underway, the streets of Enniskillen will come alive with pre-parade entertainment from the fabulous group The Hand Me Downs. Blending lively folk rhythms with a rockabilly twist, they’ll set the perfect tone for the afternoon’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations, creating a buzz of anticipation along the main route.
Keep an eye (and ear) out for a few special surprise appearances as they pop up to delight the crowds, adding an extra layer of fun, spontaneity and shared moments to this year’s festivities.
Debut performance from halo cheerleading | 3pm
Adding even more excitement to the afternoon, Halo All-Star Cheerleading will be making their debut performance as part of the pre-parade entertainment at Enniskillen Castle.
Performing from 3pm at the parade’s starting point, this special appearance marks a major milestone for the club and its talented athletes. Be sure to gather early, show your support, and help them celebrate the launch of something truly special as the St Patrick’s Day festivities build towards the main parade.
St. Patrick's Parade
Shamrocks & Shared Stories Through the Streets of Enniskillen | 3:30pm
The centrepiece of St Patrick’s Day in Enniskillen is the much-loved Parade, an extraordinary spectacle that transforms the island town into a stage of colour, creativity and celebration. Beginning and finishing at the BT Car Park beside Enniskillen Castle, the parade loops through the bustling town centre, winding its way across the iconic bridges of Ireland’s only island town and celebrating its truly unique geography.
Blending traditional floats with modern carnival-style entries, the procession promises a dynamic mix of pageantry and performance. Expect eye-catching costumes, acrobatics, live music and high-energy entertainment as participants snake their way through the streets, creating a vibrant atmosphere that builds to a thrilling peak at The Diamond. With crowd numbers of up to 30,000 expected throughout the day, visitors are encouraged to secure their viewing spots early to make the most of the experience.
The Castle and its immediate surroundings will also host the fabulous Free Family Fun Day, and as the parade route mirrors this area, there’s no need to give up your favourite vantage point to enjoy both celebrations.
Please allow extra time for the parade to reach key points along the route and plan parking in advance, as traffic disruptions are likely. Drivers are kindly asked to respect the efforts of volunteers by not parking along the parade route, particularly within the town centre, to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all.
accessibility
quiet space
For those who would prefer a quieter viewing platform, a lift-accessible Quiet Space will once again be available at St Michael’s Parish Centre, with additional Quiet Space viewing available by advance request along the main route.
Booking Essential via info@projectstpatrick.com by Friday 13th March
live webcam
For those who can’t be there in person, details on how to tune in via the Live Webcam will be shared on social media closer to the big day, ensuring everyone can feel part of the celebrations.
disabled parking
Limited disabled parking will be available in the BT Car Park, with additional accessible spaces provided behind the Townhall.
Shamrocks & Shared stories
Celebrate Culture & Folklore with Project St Patrick
For those seeking a St Patrick’s Day experience that’s truly memorable, Enniskillen offers a unique celebration, unlike anywhere else in the country. Set in Ireland’s only island town, Enniskillen blends rich cultural heritage with vibrant modern celebrations, making it the perfect destination for both locals and visitors from afar.
The festivities go far beyond the conventional, featuring unique performances, live traditional music, and interactive entertainment that captures the authentic spirit of Ireland’s past while keeping the energy fresh and engaging.
Every parade, performance, and family activity by Project St Patrick is a nod to Irish culture, brought to life by local artists, community groups, and volunteers who make the celebrations feel personal and inclusive. With its combination of historic charm, stunning natural scenery, and carefully curated events, Enniskillen promises an authentic St Patrick’s Day experience, one that is creative, inclusive and truly unforgettable.
Why choose belmore court for the festivities?
When it comes to location, convenience and comfort, Belmore Court & Motel places you right at the heart of the action. As the closest accommodation to the St Patrick’s Day festivities in Enniskillen, you can enjoy all the excitement without the stress. The parade route, Enniskillen Castle events, and town-centre celebrations are all easily accessible on foot, allowing you to soak up every moment of the atmosphere at your own pace.
For those travelling by car, our Free and Plentiful On-Site Parking is a major advantage during one of the town’s busiest weekends of the year. With limited parking and increased traffic around the base of the festivities, staying at Belmore Court & Motel means you won’t have to worry about navigating road closures or searching for a space. Simply park up, check in, and step straight into the celebrations.
Our award-winning accommodation is the perfect blend of prime location, warm hospitality and practical convenience, ensuring your experience in Enniskillen is relaxed, enjoyable and truly memorable from start to finish.
Unsure What to Expect?
Check Out the Footage from 2025’s Festivities:
St Patrick's Day FAQ
The 2026 St Patrick’s Day theme, “Shamrocks & Shared Stories,” is a celebration of connection, heritage and community. It reflects the heart of Enniskillen, a place where history, culture and people come together to create something truly special.
The Shamrocks symbolise Irish identity, pride and tradition. St Patrick himself is thought to have used the Shamrock to illustrate the concept of the holy trinity (the Father, Son & Holy Spirit) to the pagan Irish in the 5th Century using the 3 leaves of the clover.
“Shared Stories” highlight the importance of gathering, storytelling and passing down memories through generations. From live traditional music and dance to community-led workshops, parade performances and family-friendly events, this year’s theme encourages everyone to take part, whether that’s by performing, creating, reminiscing or simply enjoying the atmosphere together.
At its core, “Shamrocks & Shared Stories” is about celebrating not just Ireland’s past, but the living, breathing culture that continues to evolve in towns like Enniskillen, where every visitor becomes part of the story.
Absolutely. St Patrick’s Day in Enniskillen is designed with families at its heart, offering a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and a wide range of activities for children of all ages.
From the Free Family Fun Day at Enniskillen Castle to interactive workshops, live performances, storytelling sessions and high-energy parade entertainment, there’s plenty to keep little ones engaged throughout the Bank Holiday weekend. Many activities are free to attend, making it an accessible and enjoyable day out for families.
There are also designated Quiet Space viewing areas available by advance request for those who may prefer a calmer environment, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the celebrations. With its strong community focus and safe, friendly setting, Enniskillen’s St Patrick’s Day festivities offer a memorable experience for the whole family.
The Parade is open for all to watch and enjoy as it makes its way through Enniskillen town centre.
The parade welcomes a wide variety of participants to get involved, including community groups, schools, sports clubs, charities, performers, local businesses and cultural organisations.
If you’d like to take part, you’ll need to register your interest in advance through the festival organisers, Project St Patrick. They can provide details on application forms, deadlines, guidelines and any creative themes or safety requirements for 2026. Whether you’re planning a traditional float, a carnival-style entry, live music performance, dance troupe, or a creative costume showcase, the team will support you in shaping your contribution.
Early registration is strongly encouraged, as the parade is one of the highlights of St Patrick’s Day in Enniskillen and spaces fill quickly. Participating is a brilliant opportunity to showcase your organisation, celebrate local culture, and quite literally become part of the story on one of the town’s biggest days of the year.
The 2026 St Patrick’s Day programme in Enniskillen is packed with special events designed to bring this year’s “Shamrocks & Shared Stories” theme to life.
Celebrations begin on St Patrick’s Eve with Light the Lough at Enniskillen Castle, an enchanting evening of live music, lakeside food vendors and a spectacular illuminated flotilla on Lough Erne. Organised with support from Inland Waterways Association of Ireland, the flotilla is a stunning tribute to the region’s waterways heritage.
On 17th March, the excitement continues with the Free Family Fun Day at Enniskillen Castle and the Broadmeadow, offering interactive activities, traditional storytelling, live music and dance, outdoor adventures and family-friendly entertainment. Pre-parade performances, including live music and special guest acts, build anticipation ahead of the main event.
The centrepiece of the celebrations is the vibrant St Patrick’s Day Parade, featuring a colourful mix of traditional floats, carnival-style entries, performers, musicians and community groups crossing the iconic bridges of Ireland’s only island town.
In addition, enhanced creative programming supported by council funding will see an Artist in the Community working with local groups to deliver participatory workshops in visual arts, costume, carnival and performance, ensuring that local voices and creativity are woven into every aspect of the 2026 festivities.
Together, these events create a multi-day celebration that blends heritage, creativity, music and community spirit, offering something special for visitors of all ages.
Booking your stay at Belmore Court & Motel for the St Patrick’s Day weekend is easy and ensures you’re perfectly placed to enjoy all the festivities with convenience and comfort.
Here’s how to secure your accommodation:
🌐 Online Booking
Visit the Belmore Court & Motel website to view rooms, rates and special packages, and book securely online. Online reservations are recommended early, as rooms tend to fill quickly.
Book Here for St Patrick’s Day
📞 Phone Booking:
Call the hotel reception directly to check availability, discuss room options, and secure your booking by phone, perfect if you’d like personal assistance or have specific requests.
Call: 028 6632 6633
📧 Email Enquiries
If you have questions about your stay, such as accessible rooms, group bookings, or additional amenities, you can send an email to the hotel’s reservations team for personalised support.
Email: info@motel.co.uk
Whether you’re planning a short break or a longer Bank Holiday stay, booking ahead will help you secure the best rooms and enjoy easy access to all St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Enniskillen, many of which are just a short walk away.
Belmore Court & Motel enjoys one of the most convenient locations for your St Patrick’s Day visit. Situated just a short walk from the heart of Enniskillen’s festivities, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy major celebration hubs like the parade route, family fun events and entertainment at Enniskillen Castle without relying on transport or battling traffic.
Whether you’re heading out to join the pre-parade entertainment, exploring the Free Family Fun Day, or simply soaking up the atmosphere along the main thoroughfares, everything is easily accessible by foot from your accommodation.
If you’re travelling by car, Belmore Court & Motel also offers free and plentiful guest parking, giving you added flexibility to come and go as you please, a real advantage when many surrounding streets are busy or have restricted access during the celebrations.
In short, you’re only minutes away from all the action, making Belmore Court & Motel one of the most practical and enjoyable bases for your weekend.
For the latest updates on the Shamrocks & Shared Stories celebrations and other events, follow Project St Patrick on Facebook and check our website.
We also provide guests with information upon check-in to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the festivities.
Proud Sponsor of Project St Patrick's "Shamrocks & Shared Stories" Festivities!
