The Emerald Village will be a hub of entertainment, with a plethora of free children’s activities, including a petting zoo, workshops and face-painting, Also on the day will be a wide range of market stalls and a selection of fairground rides for the thrill-seekers amongst you. Bringing live music to the Emerald Village throughout the day, the St Pat’s Rocks Stage will see traditional Irish performances from local favourites including singer-songwriter Pat Breslin, seven-piece traditional Irish band Lampa, and eight-piece ceili band Reel Note, to name a few, with more acts still to be announced.

Despite this being the first year the city’s much loved celebration of St Patrick’s Day will not receive financial support from Birmingham City Council, this year’s theme of the Irish Phoenix rising from the Flames of Diaspora is even more significant. Championing the infamous Irish spirit and resilience, the organising team are determined that the show must go on, with plans for this year’s Parade shaping up to be even bigger and better than years gone by.

The St Patrick’s Day celebrations will begin at the Birmingham St Patrick’s Festival official launch party, on Friday 4th March 2016. Taking place at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel, the evening will include a sumptuous meal, traditional Irish dancing and live entertainment, with The Holy Show Band headling. Tickets are now available to purchase online www.stpatricksbirmingham.com, or at the Spotted Dog, Digbeth.