Hi
I take it you'll be in DUB for the night of Sunday 15th? If so I highly recommend you go to the Alternative Miss Ireland. It's been running for years with all the elements of the old Miss World pageants (swimwear, evening wear, etc.) but far more colour and music, not to mention strapped up testi*les. Best of all it is compered by Panti, one of the most elegant and smartest drag artistes anywhere. It's a highlight of the gay calendar in Dublin. The show's website is
www.alternativemissireland.com and tickets are at
http://www.ticketmaster.ie/Alternati.../artist/961520 Book a circle ticket for a seat with a view: the ground floor is close to the action but standing; from the upper circle you will only see specks on the horizon. After the show the crowd fills up the bars and keeps going for hours - it's a really fun night.
Apart from that check out the official Festival programme at
www.stpatricksfestival.ie. A word of warning - the day itself is celebrated by many by drinking too much and the night of the 17th can be unpleasant or even dangerous.
PM me if you need more details.