The global pandemic means Ireland cannot welcome visitors but St Patrick's Day is being marked in many ways.
While there may have been no traditional parades, alternative ways were found to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day.
Five hundred drones were used to create a visual spectacle in the Dublin night sky. Niall Gibbons, Tourism Ireland, outlines some of the measures taken to celebrate St Patrick's Day and to keep Ireland in the news overseas. Around the world, several hundred buildings were lit up in green. The drone show, in association with Dublin City Council, was captured by the global media, helping to keep Ireland in the news and letting future tourists know that Ireland will be open to visitors when the COVID-19 visitor restrictions end.
President Michael D Higgins said that today could be the beginning of a new journey for Ireland as we begin to emerge from the pandemic.
International dignitaries sent messages to the Department of Foreign Affairs to mark Ireland's national day. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, and Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg were among the well wishers.
Seoda, an online initiative by Culture Ireland, showcased Irish arts and culture to a worldwide audience. Acts performing included Kíla, R'n'B singer Soulé, and Oscar nominated team behind Wolfwalkers. Rossa Ó Snogdaigh, Kíla, said that a lot of people have been starved of live music during the pandemic.
All providing a taste of home for those who can't be at home this St Patrick's Day.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 17 March 2021. The reporter is Sinéad Crowley.
