Pints of Guinness, traditional folk music, and a comedic amount of green clothing are all things you would typically expect at a St Patrick’s Day celebration. And these were all things that were definitely on display at King O’Malley’s 2025 St Patrick’s Day event.
Not deterred by it being a Monday afternoon, the renowned Canberra Irish-inspired pub King O’Malley’s (or King O’s if you’re a local) had the City Walk brimming with live performances and convivial crowds. The spirit of St Patrick’s Day in Canberra was alive and well, with a packed house of revellers ready to celebrate.
Looking around, there was a diverse blend of people getting in on the action. It seemed some had just wandered down from their workplaces, still in their business wear with APS lanyards around their necks. And then there were also children in their uniforms coming straight from school. Everyone just wanted to have a good time and see what makes celebrating St Patrick’s Day so fun.
Pat Dredge had come down to King O’s with some of his co-workers for a few celebratory drinks, but not entirely in honour of the beloved Irish holiday. It just so happens that Pat’s birthday falls on St Paddy’s Day! His group joked that it made it easy to remember his birthday each year.
Pat made light of the fact that he shares his birthday with the holiday, saying, “there’s always someone to drink with.”
Local dancers from the Gregory Academy of Irish Dance donned their vibrant costumes and jig shoes. With Irish instrumental versions of well-known songs like Cotton Eye Joe playing, the crowd clapped along and cheered as the dancers tapped and leaped to the whimsical beats.
The younger dancers received plenty of ‘Awwws‘, while the older dancers had everyone excited with their Lord of the Dance routines. The families of the dancers proudly watched on, with their phones out recording and smiling with delight.
Leane Townrow brought her two daughters Hayley, 10, and Zoe, 7, down to the festivities to feel closer to her own parents and their heritage.
“My parents are Irish; they met in Sydney in ’86. They live down the coast now, so we carry on without them,” Leane said.
When asked about her favourite part of St Patrick’s Day, 7-year-old Zoe was certain in her interest in the dancers, with her eyes lighting up with excitement as she saw them take the stage for another performance. For Leane her interests in the Irish culture have changed over the years.
“Now it’s the music. I listen to Irish music all the time, but when I was younger, it was the pints,” she added.
The live entertainment was non-stop, with local musicians taking the stage in between dance performances. I managed to be around to listen and watch local ‘blokey folk/rock’ artist Matt Dent. Propped up with just a guitar, a harmonica, and a microphone, Dent filled the outdoors with melodic tunes and charming storytelling. The lively scene was set with covers of well-known Australian artists like Paul Kelly and Slim Dusty, along with some of Dent’s original songs.
And while there was plenty of attempts to ‘Split the G’ throughout the afternoon, some attendees were more interested in having a much-needed catch up with their friends. Camy, Grace, Zara, Jess and Evita had all gathered around a table, pulling out a card game as they soaked in the spirited atmosphere. Everyone had the freedom to celebrate in their own way, with each present group embracing the day in their own style.
Being among the lively crowds, I could see that this Irish holiday is much more than just indulging in a drink or wearing green. It’s a day that will always provide the perfect opportunity for people to appreciate their heritage together. The day serves as a meaningful reminder of what it means to be part of something bigger: a community united by music, laughter, and shared experiences.
The true magic for St Patrick’s Day lies in these moments of connection and togetherness. And for anyone that attended, it is a reminder that there’s no better place in Canberra to honour the luck of the Irish than with good company and plenty of cheer at King O’Malley’s.
Sláinte!