Motorcycle Events: 2025 St Patrick’s Day Rides in Dublin, Cork & Belfast

Looking for a fresh ride plan this spring? Our events page pulls together the biggest celebrations where you can hit the road, meet fellow riders, and soak up local culture. This year the St Patrick’s Day festivals in Ireland and Northern Ireland are the highlight, and we’ve broken down what you need to know to ride safely and enjoy the party.

Dublin, Cork & Belfast Ride Plans

Dublin kicks off the weekend with a massive parade that snakes through the city centre. Expect crowds, colour, and a mix of classic bikes and modern superbikes joining the procession. The route starts at St Stephen’s Green, heads down Grafton Street, then sweeps past the River Liffey before looping back via the historic Docklands.

If you’re riding in Cork, you’ll see a UN‑inspired theme that celebrates Irish heritage and global unity. The main road trek begins at the English Market, rolls out onto the River Lee bridges, and circles the University College Cork campus. It’s a scenic ride with plenty of turnaround points if you want a short loop or a longer stretch.

Belfast’s celebration is city‑wide, with multiple start points that converge at City Hall. The route we recommend follows the famous Titanic Quarter, cuts through the Botanic Gardens, and ends with a night‑time lap around the waterfront promenade. The lights and live music make it a perfect evening ride.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Ride

First up, road closures. All three cities will block key streets during the parades, so check the official council maps a week before you leave. In Dublin, the Liffey bridges close from 10 am to 2 pm on the parade day. Cork shuts down the main bridge over the River Lee for a few hours, while Belfast limits traffic around the Cathedral Quarter.

Parking is another hot spot. Dublin offers designated motorcycle bays at St Stephen’s Green – arrive early to grab a spot. Cork’s university campus has free bike racks, but they fill up fast, so consider a nearby public car park and walk the short distance. In Belfast, the Titanic Quarter has a secure lot with a modest fee; it’s the safest place if you plan to ride after dark.

Accommodation fills up quickly around the celebrations. Book a room or a hostel at least a month ahead, especially if you’re staying in the city centre. Budget‑friendly options include B&Bs on the outskirts of Dublin, university dorms in Cork that open for summer guests, and guesthouses in Belfast’s south side.Don’t forget safety gear. The March weather can swing from mild sunshine to sudden rain, so pack a waterproof jacket, breathable gloves, and layered clothing. A quick check of your bike’s brakes and lights before you set off can save you a lot of trouble when you’re navigating crowds.

Finally, plan your timing. Aim to arrive at the start point 30 minutes before the parade kicks off. This gives you enough buffer to find parking, adjust your helmet, and soak in the pre‑event atmosphere. If you miss the first wave, most routes have secondary loops that run throughout the day, so you still get a solid ride.

All set? Grab your map, load up the fuel, and get ready for a weekend of laughter, music, and miles of Irish road. The St Patrick’s Day rides are more than a celebration – they’re a chance to meet fellow riders, explore iconic streets, and create stories you’ll tell for years. See you on the road!