A Tricolour light show over Cashel last night The Rock of Cashel in Co Tipperary was the backdrop for the skyfest extravaganza, which forms part of the series of activities for the St Patrick's Day holiday weekend.

Five and a half tones of fireworks were used to create more than 40,000 explosions, thrilling crowds who braved the wet and muddy conditions.

Rocking the Rock from early evening was an array of musical talent, while the pyrotechnic show got under way shortly after 7.30pm.

Orange, red, gold, blue and of course green fireworks lit up the night sky over the ruins, with music playing to the electrifying 15 minute display.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to pour into Dublin city centre for tomorrow's St Patrick's Day parade, the highlight of this year's festivities.

The prospects of a rain-free St Patrick's Day are also good, according to Met Éireann, which is forecasting a dry day on Monday with sunny spells.

However, it did warn that sporadic wintry showers remain a distinct possibility, especially in the north.

Festival organisers are promising a spectacle of spectacle of floats and marching bands in Monday's parade with more than 4,000 participants scheduled to make their way from Parnell Square North to Christ Church from noon.

President Mary McAleese today extended her greetings to those taking part in the St Patrick's Day celebrations both at home and abroad.

"St Patrick's festival is our special opportunity to deepen and celebrate the bonds of heritage and affection which link the global, Irish family and its friends worldwide.

"It is a great showcase of the Irish love of life and this year, more than any in our recent past, is one to savour with special joy.

"The welcome return of devolved government to Northern Ireland has brought to the island of Ireland a promising era of peace, prosperity and partnership," she said. 

Almost 300,000 people were expected to travel through Dublin Airport over the course of this St Patrick's weekend, representing a 7 per cent increase in passenger numbers recorded during last year's St Patrick's holiday.

An estimated 2,250 flights were to arrive and depart Dublin airport while management at Cork Airport have predicted 100,000 passengers will come and go over the next ten days.