Although St Patrick’s Day is a day that represents Christianity coming to Ireland, it has become quite the celebration of Irish culture and heritage today throughout the U.S.
Here you will find parades, festivals, parties, special Irish meals at restaurants, and everything green – including beer. Shamrocks, leprechauns, rainbows with pots of gold, and wearing green so as not to get pinched are always a part of the festivities, too.
You do not have to be from Ireland to take part in the celebrations. If you are feeling the luck ‘o the Irish, then book yourself a trip to one of these 9 destinations where you are sure to have some fun.
1. Boston, MA
Outside of Ireland, Boston, MA is rumored to have the biggest celebration for St Patrick’s Day in the world. Dating back many years, this city offers all sorts of good times on this day, including a huge parade full of music, bagpipes, colorful floats, and maybe even a leprechaun or two.
The party isn’t over after the parade. Much of the area opens its doors to patrons, offering Irish foods, drinks, live music, and more. Expect to spend the day!
2. Chicago, IL
Have you ever seen the pictures of the green river running through Chicago over the St Patrick’s Day holiday? It really happens. They claim it’s all from the magic of the leprechaun, but no one really knows for sure. Whatever it is, the green water is eye-catching – and people flock from all over to watch the magic happen.
That’s not all you will find here, though. Chicago throws an impressive parade filled with Irish dancers, bands, and floats – and the bagpipers make it complete. Lots of partying, lots of fun, and an endless flow of green beer.
3. Dublin, OH
It seems fitting that Dublin, OH would do something special on St Patrick’s Day to honor Ireland. Those looking to do so usually start out with a huge pancake breakfast. The floats come to life in front of those sharing this meal during what is referred to as an Inflation Celebration.
A parade takes place and the town’s Historic District opens up offering good eats and drinks to be enjoyed with the sound of Celtic tunes.
4. Washington, D.C.
Even though it is our nation’s capital, we can celebrate others around the world – including Ireland. It all starts wIth the infamous Shamrock Festival. You will find music from over 50 live bands, dancers, entertainers, carnival rides and games, and a parade, too.
Like most other cities, the Irish pubs and many of the not-so-Irish pubs all open their doors to patrons promising a pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow. This usually comes in some home-cooked Irish food like cabbage and pot roast or bangers and mash served alongside green beer, Guinness, Jameson, or Baileys.
5. San Diego, CA
Heading out west, San Diego throws their biggest festival of the year for St Patrick’s Day. A parade with a wide variety of entertainment, as well as 80,000 square feet of artificial turf covering its city blocks, can help create the perfect celebration. Festivals, restaurants, and bars all partake in creating a vibe that everyone can enjoy.
6. Denver, CO
If you prefer staying in the west for your St Paddy’s Day celebrations, then Denver, CO is another great destination. They do have the biggest parade in the western half of the United States – and that is something to look forward to.
Denver is also home to many Irish pubs that open their doors to celebrate the festivities big time. With green beer flowing and Irish music filling the air, it is fun to gather with friends and family for the day.
7. New York, NY
When doesn’t New York City know how to have a good time? If you are into huge parades that have stood the test of time, this is where you are going to find it. In a mixture of culture and faith, the New York City St Patrick’s Day Parade started in 1762 and continues to grow in popularity as time passes. Of course, you have to admit that it is pretty awesome that the parade passes in front of St Patrick’s Cathedral.
When it concludes over 5 hours later, there are many places throughout the city offering Irish celebrations to keep the party going.
8. Savannah, GA
If you are like most, you likely would not consider the south to be a hotspot for Irish festivals. But, in Savannah, GA, you mix that southern charm with leprechauns and shamrocks – and you’ve got yourself a good time.
Here you will find one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S., a huge party on the river, live music and entertainment, games, dancers, and lots of Irish-inspired food and drinks.
Did we mention that their historic fountains are dyed green in honor of the day?
9. New Orleans, LA
You know that if you are looking for a festival that escalates into party mode as the day progresses, you have to go to New Orleans. This city knows how to have fun. Plus, they are the self-proclaimed largest southern entry port for Irish immigrants. They like to celebrate this with one of the biggest St Paddy’s Day celebrations in the U.S.
You will find lots of Irish eats, parades, music, dancing, and, of course, the infamous New Orleans block party.
Booking Your St Patrick’s Day Getaway
Let’s face it – heading out of town to celebrate the luck o’ the Irish is likely to leave you drained and maybe even a bit hungover. Make your trip more enjoyable from start to finish when you charter a private jet.
You will fly to and from your destination in comfort and luxury – and during a time that feels right for you. Make the most of a short time away by having control over your travel times and the perfect destination.
March 17th will be here before you know it.
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