London's much-loved St Patrick's Day festival and Trafalgar Square parade will return this weekend.

The annual event, hosted by the Mayor of London, will be held on Sunday, March 17 and will mark its 21st year.

The St Patrick's Day festival will see London celebrate all things, Irish, from its people, music, arts and food and drinks. 

The event's impressive parade has helped the festival become a highlight in London's cultural calendar as thousands attended to watch and take part in the festivities. 

If you were planning on heading down to enjoy the celebrations of the St Patrick's festival, here is everything you need to know from route, tickets and timings. 

What is the St Patrick's Day parade route in London?

The St Patrick's parade starts at Hyde Park Corner where it will set off through Piccadilly, St James's Street, Pall Mall, Cockspur Street and Whitehall. 

Celebrations will then move to Trafalgar Square seeing host Panti Bliss kick off the events and introduce acts.

What are the timings for the St Patrick's Day festival in London?

The St Patrick's festival will start 12pm and will see official celebrations end at 6pm with a singalong finale. 

Do you have to buy tickets for the St Patrick's Day Festival in London? 

The day is free for all however there are some strict conditions on entry requirements. 

All bags larger than an A4 size piece of paper will be refused entry as well as a list of prohibited items that can be found via the website here.

This Is Local London: See What's On.See What's On. (Image: staff)

Who is on the lineup for the St Patrick's festival in Trafalgar Square?

The full lineup programmed by the London Irish Centre is as follows:

  • MC/Host - Xnthony
  • Eamonn Galldubh
  • Irish Pensioners Choir
  • Maguire O'Shea Dance Academy
  • The Trad Gathering
  • The Irish Celtic Youth Orchestra
  • Kestine
  • Ruairi Glasheen and his bodhran players
  • Junk Kouture fashion show compered by Sinead Burke
  • Lisa Canny ensemble Biird
  • Jiggy
  • Belters Only
  • Irish Film London Screen Programme

What to expect from the St Patrick's festival in Trafalgar Square? 

There will be an array of activities for all to enjoy, with a line of world-class acts that are in partnership with the London Irish Centre.

You can expect family concerts, children’s films and youth performances, as well as community choirs, schools, dance troupes and more.