In 1903, Waterford made history by helping to shape how Ireland celebrates its patron saint, when St Patrick’s Day was officially declared a national holiday under the Bank Holiday (Ireland) Act. The announcement was made right here in Waterford, cementing the city’s place at the heart of Ireland’s cultural story. At a time when St Patrick’s Day was marked more by religious observance than public celebration, this decision paved the way for the vibrant parades, festivals, and community gatherings we know today. More than a date on the calendar, it was a bold statement of national identity—and one that continues to echo through Waterford’s streets every March as the city comes alive for St Patrick’s Festival.
