Dig out those giant green hats - St Patrick's Day is almost upon us and it's an occasion which Newcastle likes to celebrate almost as much as Ireland itself.
Helping to set the party mood this Friday, March 17 will be the return of the annual Paddy Fest, albeit in a new city centre home. And it is promising another bumper programme of entertainment - from live music to live rugby - during the course of its two-day run.
Its new home this year will be the NX Newcastle club in Westgate Road, signalling a move indoors for the event which usually takes place inside a giant marquee in Times Square. Following its launch on St Patrick's Day itself, it will continue into Saturday, March 18 with a giant party.
Read more: The story behind St Patrick's Day
Organisers say to expect 'more decor, more bands and louder DJs' for what is the festival's fifth outing. For those keen to join the party, here is a guide to what's on offer and how to book.
Paddy Fest 2023
When and where
Paddy Fest will run from Friday, March 17 to Saturday, March 18 inside the (highly decorated) NX Newcastle in Westgate Road, Newcastle.
What's it all about?
Music and beer (and plenty of other drinks) and a celebration of all things Irish. Expect a programme of traditional and modern Irish music from live bands and DJs, plenty of food options and no doubt some dancing on benches.
What's planned for the launch?
6pm - The festival will kick off this Friday with all of the above present and correct and admission will be until around 8pm.
Kroud Karaoke - The main event later in the night will be an Irish-theme twist on the popular mass singalong which, in keeping with the size of the venue it's in, is set to be an 'XL' event. Organisers say: "Expect all the monster karaoke jam, as always, but with extra Irish-infused craic and with the insanely loud turbo sound-system inside the walls of NX."
They add: "Expect more confetti, dancing and singing."
Saturday's attractions
This will be a 12-hour party session (12 noon until 12 midnight) with traditional and modern Irish bands, entertainers throughout the day, DJs playing into the night, free memorabilia and Guinness giveaways.
Live rugby - during the day-long party, the final of the live Six Nations England v Ireland rugby action will be shown on a huge LED screen. The kick-off will be 5.30pm and there will be live commentary to boot.
Tickets
Early bird PaddyFest tickets are now all sold out but there are tickets for the Kroud Karaoke night if you're quick. Tickets for the Friday cost £10 and then it will be £12 for final release (both plus a £2 booking fee). There's also an option of a group ticket for four people for £30, plus a £3 fee. To buy them see here.
An all-day ticket for the Saturday leg costs £12.50, plus £2 booking fee. There's also an all-day group ticket available, which admits four people, for £38 plus a £4 fee. Book here. For more information about the festival see here.
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