DUBLIN, Ireland: Dublin came alive with energy and color as thousands lined the streets to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, soaking in the vibrant parade that wound its way through the city this week.

Families, visitors, and locals gathered in a sea of green, waving flags, painting their faces, and donning festive hats to mark the occasion.

This year's parade, themed "Eachtrai" (Adventures), featured 4,000 participants from across the globe, including marching bands from Ireland, North America, and Austria. Spectacular floats, costumed performers, and groups like An Garda Siochana, the Irish Coast Guard, and Dublin Zoo took part in the procession. With clear skies overhead, the festival spirit was in full swing.

Minnu Sebastian, an attendee from India, has been living in Ireland for three years and never misses the parade. "Every year, I make sure that I am off on St Patrick's Day and come to the city center and see the beautiful parade and the different groups taking part," she said. "I usually paint my face and buy the shamrock lead, and I go to mass on St Patrick's Day morning."

Claire, visiting from Chicago with friends, shared her excitement: "We love St Patrick's Day and I love the Irish people. They are so fun. The culture is amazing. It's so different and inclusive."

Actress Victoria Smurfit, who served as this year's grand marshal, led the festivities. She described the honor as an opportunity to embrace Irish heritage: "Celebrating St Patrick's Day, for me, is an opportunity to eat all the good things and laugh at all the daft things. It is about entertainment. It is about freedom of your spirit."

Dublin's Lord Mayor, Emma Blain, also took part, riding in the historic Lord Mayor's coach from 1791. "It is a true privilege to serve as Dublin's Lord Mayor, and one of the highlights of my role is participating in the St. Patrick's Day Parade," she said. "It is a fantastic chance to celebrate the very best of our vibrant city."

Beyond the parade, celebrations continued with the Ceili Mor in Merrion Square, inviting people of all ages to enjoy traditional Irish dance. Richard Tierney, CEO of St Patrick's Festival, emphasized the event's diversity and significance: "Today is a true reflection of the joy, creativity, and inclusivity that make St. Patrick's Festival such a special celebration."