Saint Patrick’s Day: Top 15 Best Celebrations in the Northeast

Every March, New England goes all-in on shamrocks, bagpipes, and all things Irish. It seems most of the population is of Irish heritage, by blood or marriage.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t join the fun if your ancestry doesn’t include Irish immigrants! Come for the:

• Corned beef and cabbage

• Green beer

• Booming chorus of bagpipes

Or an enthusiastic (and possibly uncoordinated) attempt at an Irish jig. No matter what your plan, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a crowd at one of the region’s legendary St. Patrick’s Day parades.

Sure, the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade may be the big one—an absolute spectacle of Irish pride. But New England has plenty of other must-see parades that bring just as much charm, music, and merriment. So, while we won’t tell you not to head to Boston’s biggest Irish bash, we’re highlighting a few other favorites worth checking out for celebrating Irish culture.

Ready to discover the best places to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in the Northeast? Let’s get into it:

The Best Places to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in the Northeast

New England and the Northeast is home to some of the best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country. No matter which one you choose, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for a good time!

Saint Patrick’s Day in Boston

Boston doesn’t just celebrate—it revels in its Irish heritage. The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the oldest and biggest in the country. It draws over a million spectators. On March 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM, expect marching bands, step dancers, and an endless sea of green.

After the parade, the party spills into Boston’s legendary Irish pubs. The Dubliner (2 Center Plaza) is a prime spot, serving up:

• Classic pub fare

• Live music

And enough ambience to make you swear you’ve crossed the Atlantic.

New York City Saint Patrick’s Day Celebrations

New York doesn’t do things halfway, and its St. Patrick’s Day Parade is proof. It’s the oldest and largest in the world, stretching a solid six hours down 5th Avenue with over 200,000 participants. Think bagpipes, Irish dancers, and enough kilts to make you question if you should be wearing one.

Beyond the parade, the city goes full Irish with:

• A special St. Patrick’s Day Mass at the stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• Legendary Irish pubs, including McSorley’s Old Ale House (where history and sawdust-covered floors meet) and The Dead Rabbit (for a next-level Irish coffee)

• Cultural events and performances celebrating Irish heritage across the city

For one day, New York transforms into a massive, green-clad party where everyone is just a little bit Irish.

Rhode Island’s St. Patrick’s Parades

Rhode Island might be small, but it celebrates big. Newport’s 69th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off on March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM from Newport City Hall. It’ll feature marching bands, fife and drum corps, and historical reenactment groups. Newport’s Irish American roots date back to the early 1800s.

Meanwhile, Providence, Rhode Island, hosts its own Irish parade on March 8, 2025, at noon. The parade route starts at Smith and Rosebank Streets and ending at the Rhode Island State House. It’s a perfect excuse to explore the city’s Irish pubs. And maybe, just maybe, have a pint (or two).

More St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations You Shouldn’t Miss

Sure, Boston and NYC steal the spotlight, but the Northeast is packed with incredible St. Patrick’s Day celebrations beyond the big cities. From lively parades to rugby matches and charity galas, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re after bagpipes, beer, or both.

Greenwich’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Greenwich, CT, celebrates with its 49th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 23, 2025, starting at Town Hall. Expect marching bands, bagpipers, Irish step dancers, and plenty of Irish cheer. Shuttle buses will run from Island Beach parking lot to the parade route for participants.

Connecticut’s Biggest Parade

New Haven goes all out for the Greater New Haven St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16, 2025. It’s one of the state’s biggest single-day events, kicking off on Chapel Street at Sherman Avenue and winding through downtown New Haven, CT. Expect Irish music, dance, and a crowd that’s just as festive as the floats.

Cape Cod’s Coastal Celebration

If you prefer your St. Patrick’s Day with an ocean breeze, head to Yarmouth for the 20th Annual Cape Cod St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 8, 2025. This family-friendly event brings together colorful floats, marching bands, to the small-town charm of Cape Cod.

Worcester’s Big Green Bash

Central Massachusetts knows how to throw a party, and Worcester’s County St. Patrick’s Parade on Sunday, March 16, 2025, proves it. With hundreds of bands, Irish dancers, and bagpipers, it’s a high-energy, can’t-miss event.

Rugby & Revelry in Quincy

Looking for a twist on the usual parade scene? The Free Jacks rugby team is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Festival on March 16, 2025, at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy. Catch the Free Jacks facing off against NOLA Gold while enjoying Irish-themed festivities. Because nothing says “Irish pride” quite like a rowdy rugby match.

Holyoke’s Marathon of Festivities

Holyoke takes St. Patrick’s Day seriously. Festivities kick off with the 48th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race on Saturday, March 22, 2025. The next day, March 23, brings the 70th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade, one of the biggest and best in the region. If you love a classic, spirited celebration, this one’s worth the trip.

A St. Paddy’s Party for a Cause

For those who want to raise a glass and raise some funds, the St. Patrick’s Day Gala 2025 supports Fisher House Boston & Ironstone Farm. It’s the perfect excuse to celebrate while giving back.

The Best Irish Pubs in the Northeast

Now, as far as the real deal:

• Cozy pubs with dark wood

• The hum of live Irish music

• And bartenders who pour a perfect pint of Guinness

Head our way. The Northeast is packed with Irish pubs that feel straight out of Dublin:

Boston

Owned by two Irish fiddle players, The Burren is an institution. With live Irish music and step dancing on the regular, this spot has even hosted legends like U2 and The Chieftains. Grab a pint, settle in, and let the fiddle tunes carry you across the Atlantic.

New York City

• McSorley’s Old Ale House (est. 1854) is as classic as it gets. Sawdust on the floors, historic memorabilia on the walls, and two beer choices: light or dark. It’s old-school charm at its finest.

• The Dead Rabbit takes a modern twist on the Irish pub, famous for its next-level cocktails and warm, lively atmosphere.

Connecticut

• The Ginger Man is a snug, welcoming pub with live music and a cozy, old-world feel.

• The Playwright Irish Pub in Hamden, CT, blends sports bar energy with traditional Irish fare and a stellar selection of draught beers.

New Hampshire

May Kelly’s Cottage is a charming pub in North Conway, NH, offers stunning views of the Saco River, traditional Irish fare, and an impressive collection of over 100 Irish and Scotch whiskeys.

Rhode Island

Authentic decor, great food, and a lively atmosphere—McBride’s is a go-to for St. Paddy’s Day and beyond in Providence, RI.

Vermont

Built with salvaged materials from Irish pubs and churches, RíRá in Burlington, VT, brings an authentic taste of Ireland to Vermont.

Must-Try Irish Dishes

St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just about the drinks—it’s also about the food (and lining your stomach properly before said drinks). Here are some classic Irish dishes you’ll want to dig into:

Shepherd’s Pie

A comforting mix of ground beef or lamb, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to perfection.

Irish Soda Bread

This quick bread (made with baking soda and buttermilk) is slightly sweet and often studded with raisins. Perfect for soaking up stew or just slathering with butter.

Colcannon

A classic Irish side dish of mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale, often served with Irish bacon.

Irish Stew

A hearty mix of tender beef or lamb, root vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Warm, filling, and perfect for cold March nights.

Irish Coffee

A simple but legendary mix of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and a dollop of cream. Because sometimes, caffeine and booze are best friends.

Wait, What About Corned Beef & Cabbage?

While it’s an American St. Patrick’s Day staple, corned beef and cabbage isn’t all that traditional in Ireland. If you want a more authentic meal, try Irish bacon with cabbage instead.

Tl;dr

From the massive parades in Boston and NYC to hidden gems in smaller towns like East Durham, the Northeast knows how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re raising a pint in an authentic Irish pub, dancing to traditional music, or digging into a hearty plate of shepherd’s pie, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the Irish spirit.

And the best part? You don’t have to be Irish to join in—on March 17th, everyone is. 🍀

Frequently Asked Questions

When is St. Patrick’s Day?

Every year on March 17th, marking the death of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint.

Why is green the color of St. Patrick’s Day?

Ireland’s lush landscape gave it the nickname “The Emerald Isle.” Fun fact: blue was originally associated with St. Patrick, but green took over in the 17th century.

Do I have to have Irish heritage to celebrate?

Not at all! As the saying goes, “Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.” Just throw on something green and join the fun.

What should I wear to a parade?

Green. Layers. Comfortable shoes. March weather in New England is unpredictable—one minute it’s sunny, the next you’re caught in a surprise snow flurry.

Are there family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day events?

Absolutely! Many towns host kid-friendly parades, Irish dance performances, and cultural exhibits. Cape Cod’s parade is known for being especially family-friendly.

What Irish foods should I try?

While corned beef and cabbage is an American-Irish favorite, don’t miss out on shepherd’s pie, Irish soda bread, and colcannon for a more authentic taste.

Do any Northeast cities dye their rivers green?

Not quite, but Boston lights up landmarks like the Zakim Bridge in green. If you want to see a green river, you’ll have to head to Chicago.

How long do St. Patrick’s Day parades last?

Major parades, like New York City’s, can go on for six hours. Boston’s parade typically lasts around three hours.

Do celebrations only happen on March 17th?

Nope! Many parades and events happen on the closest weekend to allow more people to attend. For example, Newport’s parade is on March 15, 2025.