This blog post is all about the best places to spend St. Patrick’s Day in 2025.

St. Patrick’s Day holds a special place in my heart. Not just because I’m Irish, but because it’s one of the most joyous, celebratory days of the year.
It’s a time when the world turns green to honour Ireland’s patron saint, and it’s incredible to see how far-reaching the celebrations are.
From parades to pub crawls, there’s no shortage of places to spend St. Patrick’s Day, to raise a glass and shout “Sláinte!”
This blog post is all about the best places to spend St. Patrick’s Day.
What St. Patrick’s Day Means to Me
In my younger days, St. Patrick’s Day was all about Belfast’s Holylands—a rite of passage for many young people from the North of Ireland, though definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Then I moved to Liverpool for university, where Paddy’s Day felt like a home away from home. With its Irish bars and the sea of Irish students, Liverpool could rival Dublin for its love of the day.
Even after graduating, I found myself heading back there to relive those incredible celebrations.
Later, when I lived in New York City, I couldn’t wait to experience the St. Patrick’s Day parade there—it was amazing, but it didn’t quite have the same charm as celebrating back home.
For 2025, whether you’re looking for authentic Irish vibes, epic parades, or a unique twist on the holiday, here are the best places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day around the world.
What is St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17th, honours St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
He’s credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland during the 5th century, and his influence is said to have shaped much of Ireland’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
One of the most famous legends associated with St. Patrick is his use of the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
This is why the shamrock has become a widely recognized symbol of Ireland and is prominently displayed during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Why is St. Patrick Celebrated?
Interestingly, St. Patrick wasn’t actually Irish. Historical accounts suggest he was born in Roman Britain, near Banwen in South Wales (as my Welsh boyfriend loves to remind me!), before being taken to Ireland as a slave.
After escaping and later returning as a missionary, he became a central figure in Irish history, with his legacy celebrated for centuries.
Originally a solemn religious occasion marked by church services and feasts, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a global celebration of Irish culture.
Today, it’s synonymous with parades, traditional Irish music, and, of course, a good pint of Guinness. It’s a day to celebrate not just St. Patrick himself but the resilience, warmth, and spirit of the Irish people, wherever in the world they may be.
The Best Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day in 2025
Below is a list of the best places to spend St. Patrick’s Day this year and why.
1. Dublin, Ireland
I can’t have a list of the best places to spend St. Patrick’s Day without mentioning Dublin. It’s practically the epicentre of the holiday.
Every year, people from all over the world flock to Dublin to experience the unmatched energy and festivities that fill the city. Of course, you’ll also find some locals heading out of the city to escape the crowds, but for visitors, there’s nowhere else quite like it on March 17th.
The city comes alive with its legendary St. Patrick’s Festival, a multi-day event that includes parades, live music, street performances, and cultural showcases.
The highlight is the parade itself, which winds through the city with vibrant floats, marching bands, and performers bringing the streets to life.
The party atmosphere is electric, and it’s hard not to get swept up in the sea of green hats, shamrocks, and Irish flags.
RELATED blog post to read: Dublin, Ireland: 10 of the Best Budget to Luxury Hotels
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Dublin, Ireland
If you’re planning to head to Temple Bar for the big day, prepare yourself for one of the busiest—and priciest—pub experiences you’ll ever have. The famous Temple Bar pub is an icon in itself, but a pint of Guinness here will cost you significantly more than at other spots. That said, the live music, buzzing crowds, and sheer craic make it worth visiting at least once.
For a more traditional experience, you might prefer pubs like O’Donoghue’s or The Brazen Head (Ireland’s oldest pub), where you can enjoy live Irish music and a more relaxed vibe.
Beyond the pubs, Dublin’s landmarks take on a festive air during the holiday. Don’t miss St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a beautiful historic site where you can reflect on the day’s namesake.
And if you’re craving something quieter, take a walk along the River Liffey or through St. Stephen’s Green, where you can soak up the atmosphere without the chaos.
Dublin is without a doubt one of the best places to spend St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re joining the parade crowds, singing along in a packed pub, or simply soaking in the spirit of celebration, it’s an unforgettable way to mark the day. Just be ready for the crowds—and the craic!
2. Cork, Ireland
Cork might not get as much international attention as Dublin, but it’s one of the best places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day if you’re looking for a lively yet slightly more laid-back experience.
The city has its own unique charm and a strong sense of community that makes the celebrations feel a bit more personal.
What makes Cork particularly special on St. Patrick’s Day is its combination of energy and authenticity. It’s festive without feeling overly commercialized, and you get a real sense of the local culture.
RELATED blog post to read: 11 Places to Visit in Ireland that Isn’t Dublin
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Cork, Ireland
The St. Patrick’s Day parade in Cork is a must-see. It’s a colourful and family-friendly affair, with floats, performers, and marching bands winding through the city’s streets.
While it’s not as massive as Dublin’s, it has an intimate and welcoming vibe that’s perfect for soaking up the holiday spirit without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
Cork’s incredible food scene also makes it a fantastic place to celebrate. After the parade, you can tuck into some hearty Irish stew or fresh seafood at one of the city’s many pubs or restaurants.
For a true taste of Cork, try the famous local specialty, drisheen (a traditional type of black pudding), or head to the English Market, where you can sample all kinds of Irish delights.
When it comes to pubs, Cork does not disappoint. The Oliver Plunkett is a popular spot for live music and a lively atmosphere, while Sin É is legendary for its traditional Irish music sessions. These are the kinds of places where you’ll find locals and visitors alike belting out ballads late into the night.
Whether you’re enjoying a pint by the River Lee, joining in the celebrations on St. Patrick’s Street, or simply soaking up the warm Irish hospitality, Cork is a brilliant place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in 2025.
3. Galway, Ireland
Galway is one of my favourite places to visit in Ireland, and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day here is a truly special experience.
Known for its bohemian vibe and lively streets, Galway offers a perfect mix of culture, fun, and Irish charm. The city might be smaller than Dublin or Cork, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in atmosphere.
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Galway, Ireland
The St. Patrick’s Day parade in Galway is a highlight, with its vibrant floats, marching bands, and community performances adding to the festive buzz. Shop Street and Eyre Square are the hubs of activity, packed with street performers, musicians, and excited crowds enjoying the day.
For the ultimate Galway experience, pop into one of the city’s many iconic pubs. Tig Cóilí and The Quays are top picks for traditional Irish music, lively crowds, and plenty of craic. Galway’s pubs are known for their warm and welcoming vibe, making them perfect for settling in with a pint and joining in the celebrations.
Whether you’re dancing in the streets, exploring the city’s medieval charm, or sharing a laugh with strangers in a cozy pub, it’s impossible not to feel the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day in this vibrant and colourful city.
4. Liverpool, England
Liverpool has a special place in my heart, and when it comes to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, the city truly knows how to throw a party.
With its deep Irish connections—thanks to its large Irish community and strong historical ties—Liverpool feels like a home away from home for anyone looking to celebrate Paddy’s Day outside of Ireland.
Having spent many St. Patrick’s Days here during and after my time at university, I can vouch for its incredible atmosphere.
RELATED blog post to read: Bold Street, Liverpool: The Best 8 Restaurants to Dine At
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Liverpool, England
The city’s Irish bars, like McCooley’s, Lanigans, The Liffey, and The Irish House, are at the heart of the action. These spots are packed from early afternoon with people enjoying live music, Irish dancing, and plenty of Guinness flowing all day and night.
Liverpool also hosts a lively St. Patrick’s Day parade, which winds through the city center, showcasing its rich Irish heritage. The streets are a sea of green, with flags, hats, and shamrocks everywhere you look.
What makes Liverpool stand out is the sense of community and camaraderie that fills the air on St. Patrick’s Day.
It’s a city that embraces its Irish connections wholeheartedly, making it the perfect place to celebrate. Whether you’re a local, a student, or just visiting for the craic.
So if you can’t make it to Ireland, Liverpool is about as close as it gets!
5. New York City, USA
New York City is one of the most iconic places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and it has deep ties to Irish history and culture.
Home to one of the largest Irish-American populations in the world, New York’s connection to Ireland dates back to the 19th century when thousands of Irish emigrated to the city during the Great Famine.
These strong ties have shaped the city’s culture, making St. Patrick’s Day one of its most celebrated events.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend St. Patrick’s Day in New York City
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: New York, USA
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York is so legendary. Marching up Fifth Avenue, it features thousands of participants, including marching bands, Irish dancers, and also community groups proudly celebrating their heritage.
It’s one of the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the world, drawing spectators from all over. The entire city embraces the holiday, with landmarks like the Empire State Building glowing green and an electric buzz filling the air.
Hearing stories and also seeing photos of how New York celebrates St. Patrick’s Day makes it clear that it’s one of the best places in the world to mark the occasion.
Iconic Irish pubs like McSorley’s Old Ale House and The Dead Rabbit are also known for their lively atmospheres and welcoming crowds.
New York’s Irish community comes alive on March 17th, and one day, I hope to return and experience it properly. So it’s definitely on my list!
If you’re planning a trip to New York, make sure to check out my YouTube vlog here of my quick 4 days in the city:
6. Boston, USA
Boston is one of the best places in the world to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, thanks to both its deep Irish heritage and vibrant community.
Known as the unofficial capital of Irish America, Boston is home to one of the largest Irish-American populations in the country, with strong ties to Ireland that go back centuries.
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Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Boston, USA
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston, or “Southie,” is a highlight of the celebrations, drawing crowds with its colourful floats, marching bands, and also festive atmosphere.
The city also hosts a variety of cultural events leading up to the big day, from Irish film screenings to traditional music performances, giving you a chance to dive deeper into Irish culture.
The pub scene in Boston is so legendary, with spots like The Black Rose and Doyle’s Cafe serving up pints of Guinness, hearty Irish food, and live music.
What makes Boston special is how the entire city feels united in its celebration of Irish heritage. Whether you’re watching the parade, toasting with friends in a pub, or soaking in the cultural events, Boston is a fantastic place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in 2025.
So if you’re planning a trip to Boston, make sure to check out my Boston travel YouTube vlog here of my second time visiting the city:
7. Chicago, USA
Chicago goes all out for St. Patrick’s Day, making it one of the most exciting places to celebrate.
With both its strong Irish-American community and a long history of honouring Irish heritage, the city transforms into a sea of green for the holiday.
The most iconic tradition is the dyeing of the Chicago River, a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators every year.
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Chicago, USA
Watching the river turn a brilliant emerald green is a magical experience and also a true symbol of the city’s love for St. Patrick’s Day. The celebrations continue with the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade, featuring colourful floats, marching bands, and also plenty of Irish pride.
The pub scene in Chicago is just as lively, with places like The Irish Oak and Fadó Irish Pub offering live music, Irish food, and also a festive atmosphere that lasts all day and into the night.
The city’s mix of large-scale events and welcoming pub culture makes it a fantastic destination for anyone looking to celebrate the holiday in style.
Whether you’re marvelling at the green river, cheering on the parade, or raising a pint with friends, Chicago brings a unique energy to St. Patrick’s Day that’s hard to match. It’s a city that so truly knows how to celebrate!
8. Buenos Aires, Argentina
So Buenos Aires might not be the first place that comes to mind for St. Patrick’s Day, but it has one of the largest celebrations in South America, thanks to its vibrant Irish community and love for a good party.
With Irish heritage dating back to the 19th century, the city has embraced St. Patrick’s Day as a time to honour those roots while bringing its own unique flair to the festivities.
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Buenos Aires, Argentina
The highlight of the celebrations is the annual street party in the Retiro neighbourhood, where the streets come alive with music, dancing, and also a lively atmosphere that stretches well into the night.
The energy is infectious, with locals and expats coming together to celebrate Irish culture but in a way that’s uniquely Buenos Aires.
The city’s Irish pubs, like The Kilkenny and Sullivan’s, are at the heart of the action, offering plenty of pints, live music, and also a welcoming vibe. Buenos Aires also brings a Latin twist to the holiday, blending Irish traditions with its own festive spirit.
If you’re looking for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration that’s a little different but just as lively, Buenos Aires is an incredible choice. The combination of rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and also warm community spirit makes it a standout destination for 2025.
9. Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA
So Hot Springs, Arkansas, might seem like an unexpected spot for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, but it’s home to one of the most unique and entertaining traditions in the country.
This small town has gained fame for hosting the “World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade”, a quirky and also endearing event that takes place on a mere 98-foot stretch of Bridge Street.
Despite its short length, the parade packs in plenty of fun, including wacky floats, Irish dancers, and even celebrity grand marshals.
Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: Hot Springs, Arkansas
The town truly embraces the holiday spirit, with live music, festive parties, and also a strong sense of community.
Hot Springs may be small, but it knows how to throw a big celebration, drawing visitors from all over who are eager to join in the unique festivities.
So what makes Hot Springs special is its charming mix of humour and heart. It’s proof that you don’t need a massive city or a long parade route to create an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day experience.
Whether you’re watching the parade, enjoying the live entertainment, or simply soaking up the friendly atmosphere, Hot Springs is a one-of-a-kind place to celebrate the holiday.
10. London, England
London is one of the best places in Europe to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, thanks to its vibrant Irish community and also the city’s love for embracing global cultures.
With one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations outside of Ireland, London goes all out, offering a mix of traditional festivities and modern flair.
What makes London’s celebrations so special is the city’s ability to blend its Irish connections with its cosmopolitan energy.
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Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day: London, England
The highlight is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which winds its way through central London, featuring colourful floats, Irish dancers, and also marching bands.
Trafalgar Square becomes the hub of activity, hosting a massive festival complete with live performances, food stalls serving Irish specialties, and also cultural showcases. It’s a fantastic spot to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a family-friendly celebration of Irish heritage.
London’s pub scene also comes alive on March 17th, with iconic Irish pubs like Waxy O’Connor’s and The Toucan offering a lively mix of Guinness, traditional Irish music, and plenty of craic. These spots are packed with both locals and visitors, all eager to toast to St. Patrick and enjoy the festivities.
Whether you’re cheering on the parade, dancing in Trafalgar Square, or enjoying a pint in a cozy pub, London is a fantastic place to mark St. Patrick’s Day in 2025.
So if you’re planning a trip to London, why not watch one of my London YouTube vlogs from my time living there:
The Best Places to Spend St. Patrick’s Day in 2025
St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish spirit, culture, and also history that has spread to every corner of the world.
Whether you’re in Dublin or Buenos Aires, New York or Liverpool, the sense of joy and connection is universal.
So wherever you celebrate in 2025, raise a glass to the patron saint of Ireland and enjoy the craic!
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