The Saints have only played once at Thomond Park, and that was in a pre-season friendly. So for the thousands of Saints supporters for whom it will be their first trip to Limerick, here are some travel tips and ideas for what to do throughout the weekend.
Munster Rugby recommend that supporters aim to arrive at Thomond Park early and to allow plenty of time for your journey to the stadium.
There is NO car parking in the immediate vicinity of Thomond Park, but parking is available in all city centre car parks and the Limerick Park and Ride service is available from 5:30pm, picking up from the Kilmurry Lodge, Radisson Hotel, Ballykisteen Hotel and Golf Resort and Limerick Junction. A public bus service will operate from Henry Street, Limerick, to Thomond Park from 5:30pm. If you are driving you should familiarise yourself with Limerick's Green Areas policy.
Please check your tickets for the details of turnstiles (T1 - T12). Your ticket will only be accepted in the turnstile identified on your ticket. Supporters are not permitted to exit and re-enter the stadium at any point, and no alcohol or glass can be taken into the stadium. Supporters will also be requested to remove the lids of any soft drinks containers on entering the stadium.
The Dug Out Bar will be open from 5:30pm with gates opening at 6pm. Pre-match entertainment starts at 7pm and Munster ask that you be in your seat or terrace space 20 minutes before kick off to avoid crowd congestion.
There are numerous bars and catering facilities in Thomond Park, but if you fancy something a little more traditional, then head to the Locke Bar, Limerick's oldest traditional pub. Just 10 minutes from the stadium, there will be a barbeque from 5pm, seafood specialities in The Oyster House, and live sports action on the big screen TVs. The Locke Bar is on St George's Quay in Limerick.
Or you could meet up in Flannery's Bar on Upper Denmark Street, which is offering a free pint of Heineken to the first 100 Saints supporters who turn up on Thursday and Friday in their black, green and gold!
If you head into Limerick city centre over the weekend, why not visit Gleeson Sport Scene on Upper William Street, which is offering a 10% discount for all travelling Saints supporters!
And if Friday night doesn't provide enough rugby action for you, then take in a vital All Ireland League clash between Garryowen and Cork Constitution on Saturday afternoon. Kick off at Dooradoyle is at 2:30pm and entry is just €10. Garryowen (yes, the home of the famous kicking tactic) is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year and is the home club of Saints fly half Barry Everitt. It takes around 20 minutes to walk from the city centre or a taxi costs around €8.
There are loads and loads of other things to keep you amused during the weekend in south west Ireland - just click here to visit the Limerick City Council website!
