St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated every year on March 17, is one of the most vibrant and widely recognized cultural events in the world. Originally honoring Ireland’s patron saint, the holiday has expanded into a global celebration of Irish heritage, featuring parades, festivals, and unique traditions. Here’s a look at some of the most famous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across the United States and around the world.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in the United States
1. New York City, New York
The largest and oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world, dating back to 1762. Over 150,000 participants march along Fifth Avenue, attracting millions of spectators.
2. Chicago, Illinois
Famous for the dyeing of the Chicago River, turning it bright green. The city’s parade attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators and takes place on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston has one of the largest Irish populations in the U.S. Its St. Patrick’s Day parade in South Boston ("Southie") is a must-see, featuring marching bands, Irish dancers, and elaborate floats.
4. Savannah, Georgia
The second-largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the U.S., known for its green fountains, a massive parade, and an all-day party atmosphere.
5. Butte, Montana
Butte, with its deep Irish roots, hosts one of the biggest celebrations in the western U.S., featuring a lively parade and city-wide festivities.
6. San Francisco, California
A vibrant parade through downtown, followed by a festival featuring Irish music, food, and cultural performances.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans adds a Mardi Gras-style twist, with parade floats that throw cabbages, carrots, and potatoes to the crowd.
8. Kansas City, Missouri
Home to one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the Midwest, plus a Shamrock Run and Irish festivals.
9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Hosts one of the largest parades in the country, featuring over 20,000 participants and nearly 200 floats.
10. Raleigh, North Carolina
The longest-running St. Patrick’s Day parade in the Southeast, featuring cultural events and family-friendly celebrations.
International St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
1. Dublin, Ireland
The epicenter of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, featuring a multi-day festival, a spectacular parade, and an electric nightlife scene.
2. Belfast, Northern Ireland
A large-scale celebration with concerts, cultural events, and a parade through the city.
3. London, England
Hosts a massive St. Patrick’s Day festival in Trafalgar Square, along with a lively parade through central London.
4. Sydney, Australia
Home to one of the largest Irish communities outside of Ireland, featuring a green-lit Sydney Opera House and waterfront celebrations.
5. Montreal, Canada
The oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Canada, running since 1824.
6. Buenos Aires, Argentina
The largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in South America, featuring Irish music, dancing, and street parties.
7. Tokyo, Japan
The biggest St. Patrick’s Day event in Asia, with a parade in Harajuku and an Irish festival.
Where Will You Celebrate?
No matter where you are in the world, St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebrating Irish culture, heritage, and community spirit. Although we are too small to make this list, Mike's Global Grill is moving up the list after 13 years of house brined- house crafted corned beef, parsley sauce, roasted potatoes, cabbage and fresh sauerkraut!