Celebrations are underway in County Kildare, as St Brigid’s Day has been officially confirmed as a national public holiday from 2023. Just days ahead of the biggest celebration yet, honouring the region’s patron saint, Into Kildare has welcomed the news.
A host of events and activities organised by Into Kildare and Solas Bhríde will take place next weekend. The tourism body plans to illuminate the Hill of Allen for a second time on the eve of St Brigid’s Day, January 31st.
In addition to this, Leinster House and a number of other businesses and buildings across the county will also be immersed in bright light. A series of family and child friendly orientated events will also take place, in addition to a children’s colouring competition which invites children to create their own version of St Brigid’s cloak.
Speaking following the announcement today, Into Kildare Chairman David Mongey said that the introduction of St Brigid’s Day as a national public holiday was “a historic day for Kildare” and would be whole-heartedly welcomed by towns and communities across the county.
“Kildare has a deep-rooted connection with St Brigid which dates back many centuries, so it is fitting that we mark and honour the great work she did for the people of Kildare and indeed, Ireland. We have been calling for this for a while now and it is brilliant to see it come to fruition just days before this year’s celebrations, which will now become especially significant given that they will be the last ones prior to St Brigid’s Day becoming a national public holiday next year.”
Into Kildare CEO Áine Mangan echoed Mr Mongey’s comments, adding that it is expected to provide a boost to the county’s tourism economy.
“We are delighted St Brigid’s Day has been recognised as a public holiday from 2023. Not only will this allow people to fully immerse themselves in what is a significant day of celebration for the people of Kildare, an additional bank holiday weekend will also provide a much-needed boost for the local tourism and hospitality industry during shoulder season which will have a positive economic impact all across the county.” Explore the best of Ireland with our comprehensive travel guide for Ireland – your ultimate resource for all things Irish!