Thousands of American tourists lined the streets of Dublin today ahead of the American College Football game between Notre Dame and the Navy Midshipmen. 

Dame Street was rechristened ‘Notre Dame Street’ and College Green was traffic-free today as Notre Dame’s ‘Fighting Irish’ paraded through the city centre ahead of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic game.

A traditional marching band, cheerleading squad and Leprechaun mascot led a pep rally through the street. 

Cheerleaders for Notre Dame leading the pep rally through Dame Street, 26/07/2023. Image: Ellen Kenny for Newstalk.

The US Naval Forces Europe and Africa Band also performed on Grafton Street to show their support for the rival Midshipmen. 

Tourism Ireland Interim CEO Siobhán McManamy told The Anton Savage Show it was the “single largest movement of Americans to a sporting event overseas ever”. 

“The main thing about it is that it’s not just about Dublin and the few days for the game,” she said. 

“The average tourist is staying for seven or eight nights, they’re travelling around the country, and there’s a huge impact from the game. 

“It's apparent on the streets, anyone in Dublin can see they’re just everywhere having a great time.” 

The event is expected to generate $147 million for the Irish economy and plentiful memories for the Americans visiting Ireland. 

The Notre Dame Marching Band during the pre-match tailgate on Dame Street, renamed Notre Dame Street, 26/08/2023. Image: Ramsay Cardy/Sportsfile.

One American tourist told Newstalk they were staying in Ireland until September 6th. 

“Next stop is Cork, then Killarney, Dingle for three days then Galway for two nights,” he said. 

“My family are the Williams from Clare. 

“The people are friendly as friendly can be... the food is delicious and the beer is even better.”

26 August 2023; The Notre Dame Leprechaun during the pre-match tailgate on Dame Street, renamed Notre Dame Street for the day, in Dublin ahead of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic match between Notre Dame and Navy in Dublin. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Another woman said this was her first time in Europe. 

“This is a bucket list trip for us,” she said. 

The match will kick off at 7.30pm in the Aviva Stadium. Ahead of the game, there will be a US Marine Crops flyover in coordination with the Irish government.