See Event URL for activities and times. Traditionally we launch The Festival with a gala event at a local Digbeth venue. This year we are proud to announce The Paragon Hotel as the host venue, and tickets are available at a modest £5 inclusive of buffet supper, live music, dancers, dignitories and vips. Throughout the week there will be events as diverse as celebratingof Irish literature, race night, Irish Ale festival, Film night, Flower festival - and much more besides - details will appear on the website as soon as they are announced over the next few weeks. Celebrating St Patrick’s Day has a long history in Birmingham and the Parade in particular has always been a highlight. The whole city comes behind The Festival and has included the Selfridges Building lighting up green especially. The festival is organised by groups of volunteers from the Irish community and it is thanks to them that we have this opportunity to celebrate our national heritage in this way