On the surface, St. Patrick’s Day might seem like it’s all about beer, beer and more (green) beer. But the truth is, you can celebrate this Irish-inspired holiday however you want. If you’re a beer aficionado, this is a great time to have a tasting. If you’re more into a culinary adventure, there are plenty of corned beef sandwiches to go around.
The first St. Patrick’s Day was started by Irish immigrants in America in 1601, and a century later Irish soldiers marched in New York City in honor of St. Patrick. From there, parades continued in major cities like Boston and Chicago, and the celebrations continued over the next 200 years.
If you’re looking for a place to honor Irish heritage this year and get involved with the celebrations, we rounded up a few of the best, most festive places to celebrate.
1. New York City
Though the first-ever St. Patrick’s Day celebration occurred in the 1600s, the New York City event in the 1700s really turned the parade into an annual celebration. To this day, the celebrations continue.
On March 17, the 265th St. Patrick’s Day parade will take place in NYC along 5th Avenue. Marching bands, bagpipe players and Irish dancers will perform, so make sure to don your shamrocks and green to get in on the fun.
The parade will begin at 11 AM on East 44th Street and continue northward until around 4:30 pm.
2. Savannah, Georgia
Although many of the biggest St. Patrick's Day celebrations take place in northern cities, Savannah, Georgia, has become one of the most popular places in the South to celebrate the holiday.
The city marks the occasion by dyeing the Forsyth Park fountain green and hosting one of the largest St. Patrick's Day parades in the United States.
Savannah's parade ranks just behind those in New York City and Chicago in size and draws visitors from around the world each year. The event features Irish heritage groups, marching bands, traditional dancers and elaborate floats. It has become Savannah’s largest annual event, and some dedicated attendees even camp along the parade route to secure the best viewing spots.
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is home to another city that dyes its water green, only on a much larger scale. The Chicago River will be shamrock-colored for the celebrations, drawing crowds to witness the transformation.
After taking in the sights, head to Barney Callaghan’s Pub, a spot known for its perfectly poured pints of Guinness. Then, warm up by the fireplace while enjoying live music.
If you’re into fitness, the city hosts an 8k run called the Shamrock Shuffle. Over 30,000 runners participate every year.
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is known for its Irish pubs and deep Irish heritage, making it one of the most iconic places in the United States to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Visitors can explore that history through cultural landmarks like the Irish Heritage Trail, which stretches more than three miles from the Rose Kennedy Rose Garden in the North End through downtown and Back Bay to Fenway Park.
The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade is a centerpiece of the celebration and will take place Sunday, March 15, at 11:30 a.m. The festivities also include the St. Patrick’s Day 5K Road Race. The race is capped at 1,750 runners, with the first 650 registrants receiving official long-sleeved shirts designed by Dropkick Murphys, one of the event’s sponsors.
5. San Antonio, Texas
You might not think of Texas as a St. Patrick’s Day celebration hotspot, but just like in Chicago, the San Antonio Riverwalk river turns green, and you can take part in a host of activities.
While you're there, take a River Walk tour and learn about San Antonio’s rich history. Float past historic landmarks, hear stories of the city's past and experience the blend of cultures that make this city so unique.
I might be biased because this is my hometown, but San Antonians definitely know how to party. The San Antonio St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have been going strong since 1969, so wear your bright green and gold and get in on the fun.
How to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day wherever you are
No matter where you are, you can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in your way. Whether that means cooking up a hearty plate of corned beef and cabbage at home or heading to your favorite local pub to raise a pint with friends, the spirit of the holiday is all about enjoying good company and honoring Irish heritage.
