Updated: Monday, March 21, 2011 12:12 pm

With hundreds of thousands of festival-goers attending the nearly 120 parades that flared up across Ireland on Thursday, the country was awash in St. Patrick's day traditions, commanding the attention of the world at large.

According to the Irish Times, Dublin's parade attracted over half a million people, while Limerick was host to the country's biggest parade outside of the capital. St. Patrick's day celebrations continued well into the weekend with fairs, carnivals, arts and music events, and a largest-ever-seen-in-Ireland waterfall fireworks display.

Dublin may be the seat of all the action on March 17, but the liveliness of the Irish capital is a mainstay well throughout the year, making it a highly desirable location for destination weddings from around the globe.

Tie the knot at one of Dublin's stunning cathedrals, making sure to stop for a photo in front of the legendary Dublin Castle. Better yet, be the talk of the town when you march to your reception through Trinity College and the many jaunty streets that surround it.