St. Patrick's Day Kicks Off a Special Year for the Island of Ireland

NEW YORK, March 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The St. Patrick's Festival is one of the highlights of Ireland's cultural calendar -- a week-long celebration of music, dance, outdoor spectaculars and of course, on March 17th, the stunning St. Patrick's Day parade through the historic streets of Dublin. The festival is the traditional starting point of the holiday season and what a year 2012 is going to be.

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Northern Ireland 2012

2012 is the year when Northern Ireland will take center stage with a series of spectacular occasions. Titanic Belfast, the largest Titanic visitor experience in the world, will open its doors in April. The new visitors centre at the UNESCO world heritage site at the Giant's Causeway will open in the fall and the European Tour's Irish Open golf tournament will return to Royal Portrush in June.  These events and many more come under the banner 'Northern Ireland 2012 –Your time, our place.'

Jump into Ireland

Don't just come and see the island of Ireland in 2012, 'Jump In.'  Tourism Ireland's new brand, launched this year, aims to raise awareness about the unique nature of an Ireland vacation.

Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, said, "'Jump into Ireland' describes the joyful immersion of a trip to Ireland. That sense of uplifting joy as you take part in our diverse iconic experiences and engage with our welcoming people. We are certain that our new brand will whet appetites for what is on offer and we would encourage vacationers to include a trip to Ireland on their calendar in 2012."

The Gathering 2013

Tourism Ireland is also casting its eye to next year, 2013, when Ireland will host what's being called, 'The Gathering.' The Gathering Ireland 2013 is a year-long celebration of everything that's unique and great about Ireland and its people.

Throughout the year you can expect to see a huge line-up of festivals and events focusing on the best of Ireland's offerings in culture, music, the arts, sports and heritage. We are inviting everyone who has ever felt, or wanted to feel, a connection to Ireland to visit in 2013.

ActorLiam Neeson said, "I am an Irishman first and foremost, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Being Irish and a citizen of the world has made me truly appreciate Irish culture, music and history. Whether you're first- or second-generation Irish, or even have no connection to Ireland, you should visit in 2013 for a unique experience."

For more media information, please contact: Ruth Moran 212-418 1832 [email protected]

Visit our Media room at www.discoverireland.com/mediaroom.

For information on traveling to Ireland visit www.discoverireland.com.

SOURCE Tourism Ireland