Planning to travel to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year? Here’s everything you need to know about some of the best celebrations across the country. VinnieVanGO has everything you need to find the top five destinations for the ultimate St Patty’s Day festivities.
North: Boston, MA
What started in 1724 by the Charitable Irish Society in Boston to honor Irish culture, gained additional meaning when the British troops evacuated the city on March 17, 1776. Today, the oldest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston (locally known as “Southie”) honors both Irish-American culture and the Evacuation day holiday. Thousands flock the city to enjoy a morning of parade floats, bands marching, and family filled festivities. After the parade many will visit one of the cities pubs to continue the celebration.
East coast: Washington, DC
The Nation’s capital brags that it hosts “the mother of all St. Patrick’s Day festivals” the Shamrock Fest. This year the fest will be held on March 23 at RFK Stadium, and will be a day full of activities with everything from carnival rides, to over 30 alternative rock bands.
Midwest: Chicago, IL
Thousands of Chicago residents and visitors gather around the Chicago River each St. Patrick’s day to see the dyeing of the River. The tradition started way back in 1961 when the local plumbers union dyed their coveralls “Irish green” to celebrate St. Patty’s Day. The harmless solution was first dumped in the river in 1962 turning the river St Patrick’s Day Green for one week. After the dyeing of the river, many will take the short walk to the start of the 63rd annual Parade which kicks off in downtown Chicago. Those who wish to warm up afterwards can participate in one of the many Shamrock Pub Crawls throughout the city.
West Coast: San Diego, CA
If you wish to beat the cold, stay warm in San Diego and enjoy the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration west of the Mississippi. San Diego is known for its annual ShamROCK fest in the Gaslamp district. Over 20,000 people from across the US will enjoy an all-day party with Irish bands, flowing green pints and steppers. For over 25 years visitors have transformed this legendary holiday into a 6-block outrageous experience for the green at heart.
Deep South: Savannah, GA
Savannah may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of St. Patrick’s Day, but the city known for its hospitality boasts the largest gathering for the holiday in the country. On March 17th expect over 300,000 people, bagpipe players, Shriners, decorated floats, and Irish dancers. In addition to the parade, you can look forward to a weekend-long fest and endless string of dance parties, more than 350 marching band performances and even a fun run to work off the green beer.
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