St. Patrick's Day Shenanigans
Updated: Mar 13, 2019
Céad míle fáilte (one hundred thousand welcomes) to the first newsletter for IrishBarsUSA!
Kevin & Pam are wondering “what’s the craic” for your St. Patrick’s weekend? Craic (pronounced crack) is a widely used expression in Ireland, used to ask “what’s happening” in reference to good times, entertainment, gossip, music, drinking, or any kind of good clean debauchery!
We’re going to help you have exciting craic to discuss over the water cooler on Monday by giving you a list of shenanigans available this weekend on this side of the pond. Sláinte!
Huntsville, Alabama
42nd Annual Parade, Saturday 3/16, begins at 11:30 am
http://www.huntsvillestpatricksday.com/
A family oriented event, following a 2 mile route, promoting Irish heritage & culture.
Fairbanks, Alaska
St. Paddy’s Day Social Dance, Friday 3/15, 8:30p-11p
Looking for something different? How about a good, old-fashioned, social dance? No experience necessary, and who knows how many cute leprechauns will ask you to do a jig?
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix Faire, Saturday 3/16, 10a-5p
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-phoenix-st-patricks-day-faire-tickets-47824855430
An all day event with the tagline of “the greenest day in the desert” featuring Irish music, step dancing, bagpipers, food, crafts, and genealogy.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
The 16th Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Sunday 3/17, 6:30p
http://www.shorteststpats.com/2018/04/dates-announced-for-st-paddys-2019/
Oh, the title alone makes this a parade like no other! It ends a weekend of Irish fun in Hot Springs! PS, for the runners out there, it includes a “ZeroK race” which is, of course, the shortest in the world!
Dublin, California
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Friday 3/15 - Sunday 3/17
https://www.dublin.ca.gov/293/St-Patricks-Day-Celebration
This “sister city” to Dublin, Ireland boasts to be the biggest Irish event on the west coast; with an estimated draw of 85,000 visitors it most likely is. Typical Irish fare, with an area of 200+ vendors and a pop up Irish tea cottage makes it a unique, all-weekend event.
Denver, Colorado
St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday 3/16, begins at 9:30a
https://www.denverstpatricksdayparade.com/
A very traditional parade with a bit of a circuitous route; it is described as “a big snake which uncoils and returns from whence it came. Once again St. Patrick saves the day.”
Stamford, Connecticut
Tigin Irish Pub, Saturday 3/16-Sunday, 3/17, opening at 7:30a
https://tiginirishpub.com/stamford/st-patricks-day/
Instead of the usual “pub crawl” how about just staying in one place? Tigin Irish Pub offers a full weekend of shenanigans, all under one roof! Fun, games, tent events, you can even get a Guinness glass engraved.
Wilmington, Delaware
The Annual Post-Parade Hooley, Saturday 3/16, after the parade (which begins at noon)
https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/event/st-patricks-day-parade-%26-post-parade-hooley/33481/
Hmm. What’s a “hooley” you ask? I had to look it up: “A party. An evening of traditional music and dance. A strong wind or gale.” Sounds like Irish fun to us! These particular shenanigans take place under a large tent at the end of the parade route.
Kissimmee, Florida
An all weekend event
https://www.experiencekissimmee.com/blog/where-celebrate-st-patricks-day-kissimmee
With their tagline “Kissimmee, I’m Irish” how can they go wrong? There are a multitude of offerings to keep you busy all weekend; live music, shows, and authentic Irish grub. Their motto is “two people shorten the road” so be sure to bring a friend!
Savannah, Georgia
St. Patrick’s Day Festival, Friday, 3/15 - Saturday 3/16, 10a-12a
http://www.savannah.com/savannahs-st-patricks-day-celebration/
Their 195th annual parade is ranked as the 2nd largest in the world (well-deserved bragging rights!), and with over 300,000 expected visitors it promises to be a hopping weekend in the beautiful Georgia city. Lots of traditional ceremonies, family festivals, and outdoor parties put it right behind New York City in popularity.
Waikiki, Hawaii
Murphy’s Bar & Grill Block Party, Sunday 3/17, beginning 11a
http://murphyshawaii.com/st-patricks-day/?src=HawaiiCom
This annual “child friendly” event (until 4p, when it gets too crowded) offers face painting, balloon, storytelling, and lots of food…Murphy’s donated part of the food profits to the Hawaii Children’s Cancer Foundation.
Boise, Idaho
St. Patrick’s Music Bash at O’Hannah’s, Saturday 3/16 – Sunday 3/17 6:30p-close
Hmm, a bit of adult only entertainment! Live music, bagpipers, and plenty of drink specials. Lots of games, with great prizes!
Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Parade, Saturday 3/16, begins at noon
https://www.chicagostpatricksdayparade.org/
Parades abound on St. Patrick’s Day, but how many cities dye their river green? Only Chicago, my friends. Dyed at 9a (safely, with vegetable dye), and the best photo ops are from the east side of Michigan Avenue.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Pub Crawl, Saturday 3/16, 4p-12p
https://www.facebook.com/events/2017286241720952/
Well, what could possibly go wrong here? Your ticket entitles you to 2 free drinks, your pub crawl map (11 participating pubs), professional photos, contests & prizes!
Emmetsburg, Iowa
Community Activities, Friday 3/15 – Sunday 3/17, hours vary
http://www.emmetsburgirishgifts.com/activities.php
The St. Patrick’s Association of Emmetsburg puts on amazing, family oriented, events during the entire weekend. Chili cook offs, Irish baked potato bar, bean bag toss contest, a 5K, disc golf, chainsaw demos, and a pancake breakfast.
Kansas City, Kansas
The Kansas City Parade, Sunday 3/17, begins at 11a
https://www.kcirishparade.com/
The Grand Marshall is Eric Stonestreet from Modern Family, need we say more? Their motto is “you need to be Irish to attend, but luckily everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day!”
Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington’s Parade & Festival, Saturday 3/16, begins at 8a
https://lexfun4kids.com/lexingtons-st-patricks-day-parade-and-festival-2019/
Held rain or shine, this all day event benefits the Lexington Habitat for Humanity. Make sure you’re there at 10:45, when they hold the “blessing of the keg.”
New Orleans, Louisiana
Weekend Party, Friday 3/15 – Sunday 3/17
https://www.neworleans.com/events/holidays-seasonal/saint-patricks-day/
You’ve gotta love a city that can host a fun-filled weekend right after their famous Mardi Gras debauchery! Plenty to do all around town, check out their website!
Portland, Maine
Old Port’s Historic Walking Tour, Sunday 3/17, 11a-1p
https://www.ticketweb.com/event/old-port-st-patricks-day-monument-square-tickets/9124575
Explore Old Port’s rich history and places of interest. No drinking on the tour, but many options available afterwards!
Ocean City, Maryland
Annual Parade & Festival, Saturday 3/16, begins at noon
https://ococean.com/events/st-patrick-s-day-parade-and-festival
Kevin & Pam are speechless, which is a rarity. If you want to see why, check out the website sponsored by the Delmarva Irish American Club. A Shriner and his dog on an Aladdin magic carpet…let’s just say you can’t unsee it.
Boston, Massachusetts
Events all weekend, Parade is Sunday 3/17, beginning at 1p
https://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/st-patricks-day-events.html
Considered the most Irish city in the world, you have to get a Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade on your bucket list! Be a part of the 1 million spectators!
Clare, Michigan
45th Annual Clare Irish Festival, all weekend
https://www.claremichigan.com/irish-festival/
Touted as being very family friendly, this festival offers too many activities to name. Check out their website!
St. Paul, Minnesota
Events all weekend, Parade is Saturday 3/16, beginning at 12p
https://www.visitsaintpaul.com/things-to-do/st.-patricks-day/
Tons to do in this great city, including a parade, a hockey championship, and plenty of tent parties.
Biloxi, Mississippi
Annual Hibernia 5K Run & Parade, Saturday 3/16, 9a & 2p
Start your day with the 5K Derby Race, and then relax and enjoy the parade. Biloxi is a lovely city, right on the Gulf.
St. Louis, Missouri
“Three Events, One Weekend” Parade is Saturday 3/16 at noon
A formal dinner (followed by dancing) on Friday, a 5 mile run and their famous parade on Saturday, and Mass & brunch on Sunday. Talk about an Irish-themed weekend, this is it!
Butte, Montana
Events All Weekend, Parade is Sunday 3/17, beginning at 12p
http://southwestmt.com/listings/8804.htm
Known for their mining history, Butte drew a large number of Irish immigrants; their descendents carry on their rich heritage, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. Begin your celebration with 8am Mass, sponsored by the Ancient Order of the Hibernians.
O’Neill, Nebraska
Events All Weekend
https://www.facebook.com/oneillstpats50/
Lots to do, albeit somewhat different! Duck hunting, a “Mr.” Irish contest, a dodgeball tournament, and a St. Patrick’s fun run.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Events All Weekend
https://www.visitlasvegas.com/event/st-patricks-day-parade-%26-festival/35971/
What do you get when you mix the neon lights of Vegas with the Christianity of St. Patrick? Four days of electrifying holiday celebrations including a carnival, festival, car show and great live entertainment!!
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Events All Weekend
http://www.goportsmouthnh.com/what-to-do/holiday-happenings/st-patricks-day-specials/
Start with brunch at Orenell’s, listen to live music at RíRá’s, dine on corned beef (along with a few beers) at Throwback Brewery. There! We’ve planned your St. Patrick’s Day with perfection!
Trenton, New Jersey
All Irish, All Year Long
Both Kevin and Pam have their roots in Trenton, and the Tir Na Nog is the place to be for Irish descendants. They know it well (as does their friend Lynn Annuzi!) A small bar with friendly service, it’s the place to see & be seen. Usually live music is playing, check out their calendar.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Events All Weekend
https://www.visitalbuquerque.org/abq365/blog/post/st-patricks-day-events-in-albuquerque/
Leave it to the New Mexicans to provide us with unique entertainment on St. Paddy’s Day weekend! Your pub crawl? Why, it’ll be on a 14 passenger party BIKE, thank you very much. Your walking tour of Albuquerque? That, sir & madams, will be a ghost tour. Follow that with a hot air balloon rally, and you know you’re in New Mexico!
New York, New York
New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday 3/16, 11a
https://www.nycstpatricksparade.org/
Always held on St. Patrick’s Day, unless it falls on a Sunday. Then, following the Catholic tradition of resting on Sundays, it is held on the Saturday prior. This renowned parade will be televised on NBC for those who can’t make it to the Big Apple.
Emerald Isle, North Carolina
St. Patrick’s Day Festival, Saturday 3/16, 10a – 5:30p
https://www.emeraldislerealty.com/event/st-patricks-day
Fun for the entire family, including a petting zoo, amusement rides, a climbing wall, and face painting. Over 75 craft vendors and clowns will add to the day, along with a wide variety of food and beer.
Fargo, North Dakota
Events All Weekend
We just had to include the city of our favorite Coen Brothers’ movie! In that vein, a lot of Irish blood flows (pardon the pun) in Fargo! Their rich history can be seen at the Celtic Festival on Saturday, celebrating the arts and traditions of the seven Celtic nations.
Columbus, Ohio
Flannagan’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, Sunday 3/17, 12p-12a
https://www.visitdublinohio.com/event/flannagans-st-patricks-day-celebration/157/
Celebrate the holiday with 10,000 of your closest friends at the largest Irish party in Ohio!
Bricktown, Oklahoma
Events All Weekend, Parade is Saturday 3/16, beginning at 13a
https://www.tripsavvy.com/st-patricks-day-oklahoma-city-4159556
Alpacas in the St. Patrick’s Day parade? Oh, why not, as long as they’re wearing green. Add to that block parties, galas, and brewery tours, and you’ve got yourself a fun-filled weekend in Oklahoma!
Portland, Oregon
The Shamrock Run, Sunday 3/17, beginning at 8a
http://redtri.com/portland/portland-st-patricks-day-family-fun/
This 40 year old race is a beloved institution in Portland. 5K, 8K, and 15K, along with a 4 mile walking course and a 1K Leprechaun Lap. Dress up if you participate, or even if you’re just cheering someone on, it’s tradition!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia Pub Crawl, Saturday 3/16, 12p – 8p
http://stpatricksdayphilly.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxKOLxIn94AIVyh-tBh2mCgt4EAAYASAAEgImzfD_BwE
With 20 bars and 3,000 participants, this is one of the biggest crawls in America!
Newport, Rhode Island
63rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday 3/16, begins at 11a
https://www.newportirish.com/parade.html
A well-attended tradition in this coastal state, and deservedly so…the community works hard all year long to make this event successful.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, Saturday 3/16, beginning at 9a
Loads of stuff to do, and it’s not even Spring Break at Myrtle Beach! In addition to their parade, you can tour their famous labyrinth, have green kegs & ham at Dave & Busters, participate in paint night at the Tin Roof, and stop in the various bars for live music.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
40th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Saturday, 3/16, begins at 2p
https://visitsiouxfalls.com/events/40th-annual-st-patricks-day-parade/
Great family fun in Sioux Falls begins promptly at 2pm. Anyone can participate, as long as they’re wearing a “button.” This year’s cost is $3.
Nashville, Tennessee
Events All Weekend
http://nashvilleguru.com/15010/st-patricks-day-nashville
Too many to mention in this happening town! Outdoor parties, yard games, pub crawls galore, and even a dinner theater: “Unlucky Charms Murder Mystery” are some of the many things to chose from…or do them all!
Austin, Texas
Y’all Fest, all weekend, various times
So much to do on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in this quaint Texan town. Check out the listing on their comprehensive website.
Salt Lake City, Utah
41st Annual St. Patrick’s Parade, Saturday 3/16, 10a
http://www.irishinutah.org/utah-st-patricks-day-parade/
Sponsored by the Hibernian Society of Utah, held “liquid sunshine or shine!”
Manchester, Vermont
Equinox Resort, all weekend
http://www.equinoxresort.com/breweries-vermont-st-patricks-day/
Riddle: What do Manchester, Killington, Mount Snow, and Bennington have in common? They are all holding major events during this holiday weekend; stay at the beautiful Equinox and visit all of the beautiful New England surrounding villages!
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend, Friday 3/15 – Sunday 3/17
https://www.shamrockmarathon.com/
This is where one of us will be (hint: it’s not Kevin) for the weekend! 6 races, all along the Atlantic coastline of beautiful Virginia Beach. Free Yuenglings for all racers, maybe they’ll be green!
Seattle, Washington
Events All Weekend
https://seattle.cbslocal.com/2018/03/13/best-ways-to-celebrate-st-patricks-day-in-seattle/
Check out their informative website; tons to do in this beautiful city, including their 44th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade held on Saturday, 3/16, beginning at 12:20 with the raising of the trídhathach na hÉireann (tri colored Irish flag).
Washington, DC
Historical Events this weekend
https://freetoursbyfoot.com/what-is-there-to-do-in-washington-d-c-for-st-patricks-day/
Unfortunately, due to the increased cost of security, the St. Patrick’s Day parade is no longer held in our Nation’s capital. But don’t let that stop you from visiting, there’s still plenty to do. For one, take a tour of national landmarks that were built by Irish hands!
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
The Greenbrier, America’s Resort
http://www.greenbrier.com/Hidden-Offers/St-Patricks
Looking for a total get-away this weekend? The Greenbrier is offering an inclusive package of dining, dancing, music, and even activities for the kids.
Madison, Wisconsin
Annual Parade, Sunday 3/17, begins at 1:30p
https://www.cityofmadison.com/tags/st-patricks-day
Irish roots run deep in the Badger State, and no more so than in lovely Madison. The events are numerous; it’s hard to make a choice so make it all happen!
Casper, Wyoming
Pub Crawl & 5K, multiple locations
https://visitcasper.com/events/st-patricks-day-5k-pub-crawl-multiple-locations/
We’re seeing a pattern here…a St. Patrick’s Day race, followed by pub crawls to quench your thirst. Leave it to Casper to add a twist to it; you do the crawl AS you do the 5K! Run a little bit, drink a 3 ounce beer, run to your next pub…you get the picture!