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For the first time in its history, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin has invited up to 8,000 visitors to take part in the procession. As part of a tourism initiative dubbed The Gathering Ireland 2013, Sunday’s parade allows visitors (Irish or "honorary Irish for the day") to walk in the 1 ½-mile procession, passing historic landmarks such as the General Post Office, Trinity College, Dublin Castle and City Hall. The deadline for online applications has passed, but those who want to join in may still register at Dublin’s City Hall from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday or 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Participants must be older than 15 and must show photo identification.

The St. Patrick’s Festival continues through Monday with free entertainment and the city’s iconic buildings lighting up in green. See details at www.stpatricksfestival.ie.

However, there’s more to Dublin’s festivities around St. Patrick’s Day than its parade.

Those already in town might wish to check out the Irish Craft Beer Village, taking place through Monday at George’s Dock in an area known as the Dublin Docklands. The Docklands, following an extensive urban renewal project, is now home to a mix of modern architecture and buildings of historical significance containing galleries, bars and restaurants. The area is easily reached on foot from the city center.

Visitors to the Irish Craft Beer Village will find a wide selection of beers and ciders made by about a dozen craft breweries of Ireland, artisan foods from bratwurst to burgers, and a program rich in local entertainment, including traditional Irish music.

Doors open at noon and close at midnight Friday and Saturday and 10 p.m. Sunday and Monday. Admission costs 5 euros (about $6.50) at the gate. For more information, see www.irishfest.ie .

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