Thousands of people gathered in the streets of Dublin to celebrate the annual St. Patrick's Day parade on Tuesday (March 17)

Organizers of the St Patrick Festival said there were 500,000 spectators. The festivities included drummers, people playing bagpipes and those wearing various themed costumes, while onlookers wore green and waved the Irish flag.

The March 17 public holiday observes the death of the patron saint of Ireland, St Patrick. The day has evolved into a celebration of Irish culture with parades, music, dancing and drinking.

Production: Cathal McNaughton, Natasha Mulenga/Reuters