This blog post is all about how to spend St. Patrick’s Day in New York City.
If there’s one day each year that truly speaks to my soul, it’s St. Patrick’s Day in New York.
Being Irish, I’ve always had a deep affection for March 17. It’s an opportunity to embrace my heritage, enjoy classic Irish music, and, yes, savour a pint of Guinness (or two).
In 2025, St. Patrick’s Day in New York will undoubtedly bring its usual flurry of festivities to New York City.
The Big Apple has a special connection to Irish culture, owing to centuries of Irish immigration and the vibrant communities that have flourished since.
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in New York City on March 17th, 2025, here’s how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in New York in style. While also learning a bit about Irish history in the city that never sleeps.
This blog post is all about how to spend St. Patrick’s Day in New York City.
1. What is St. Patrick’s Day in New York and Why Do We Celebrate It?
St. Patrick’s Day in New York marks the feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is credited with bringing Christianity to the Irish people during the 5th century.
Over time, March 17 evolved into a day not only to honour the saint but also to celebrate Irish culture, traditions, and heritage.
In Ireland, the holiday has historically been a day of religious observance, but in modern times, it has become known worldwide for parades, festivals, Irish dancing, and the unmistakable colour green.
So why do we celebrate? For many of us Irish—or anyone who appreciates Ireland’s rich cultural tapestry—St. Patrick’s Day in New York is a chance to connect with our roots.
It’s a day to proudly wave the tricolour flag, listen to fiddle tunes, and remember the struggles and triumphs of Irish history. From the shamrock to the hearty Irish breakfast, the day is a full-blown tribute to all things Irish.
2. A Quick History of the Irish & St. Patrick’s Day in New York City
New York City has long been a melting pot for immigrants from all around the globe.
The Irish immigration to the United States (particularly to NYC) surged in the mid-19th century, largely due to the Great Famine (1845–1852).
Desperate for new opportunities, families fled Ireland’s devastated economy and arrived on American shores with hopes for a better life.
Initially, Irish immigrants faced severe discrimination and hardship. Signs reading “No Irish Need Apply” were not uncommon.
Over time, however, the Irish established themselves in the city’s workforce, politics, and social life. They built churches, schools, and unions, and played a significant role in shaping modern New York.
Today, the Irish community’s imprint is ingrained in the city’s DNA. This is evident in its countless Irish pubs, cultural centres, and, of course, the huge St. Patrick’s Day Parade each year.
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3. How St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is Typically Celebrated
St. Patrick’s Day in New York celebrations vary from place to place, but you can expect a few common threads:
- Wearing Green: From shamrock-shaped pins to head-to-toe Kelly green ensembles, the colour green is everywhere.
- Parades: Many cities host parades featuring bagpipers, dancers, and floats. New York’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is arguably the most famous of them all.
- Music and Dancing: Traditional Irish music (often referred to as “trad”) can be heard in pubs, on the streets, and at formal concerts. Irish dancing (think jigs, reels, and Riverdance) often takes centre stage, too.
- Food and Drink: The day wouldn’t be complete without a hearty Irish breakfast, corned beef and cabbage, soda bread, or a pint of Guinness.
St. Patrick’s Day in New York is celebrated with particular vigour, so plan on a day of lively festivities, camaraderie among strangers, and a genuine sense of community.
4. The Iconic New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade
If you’re in town for March 17, 2025, the best-known event is the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Running since 1762, it’s among the oldest and largest parades in the world. Tens of thousands of participants (marching bands, firefighters, police officers, military units, cultural organizations and more), will make their way up Fifth Avenue.
Spectators line the streets, decked out in green, white, and orange, cheering on the pipers and dancers during St. Patrick’s Day in New York.
What Time to Arrive for the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The parade typically starts in the late morning.
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Anywhere near St. Patrick’s Cathedral or the southern portion of Central Park is popular.
What to Expect at the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Big crowds, bagpipe music echoing off skyscrapers, and a celebratory atmosphere as diverse as New York City itself.
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5. Exploring Woodlawn: A Slice of Ireland in the Bronx
For a more local and authentic experience, venture up to Woodlawn in the Bronx. Sometimes referred to as “Little Ireland,” this neighbourhood is home to a tight-knit community of Irish immigrants and Irish Americans.
You’ll find Irish grocery stores, bakeries, and pubs that instantly transport you back to Dublin or Cork.
How to Get to Woodlawn
Take the Metro-North Harlem Line from Grand Central to the Woodlawn stop.
Or hop on the 4 train to Woodlawn subway station (the end of the line) and walk or catch a local bus.
What to Do in Woodlawn
Enjoy a hearty Irish breakfast, grab a pint in one of the local pubs, or simply wander the streets listening to lilting Irish accents.
So in many ways, you’ll feel like you’ve crossed the Atlantic, without leaving New York City.
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6. Where to Get Your Irish Fix on St. Patrick’s Day in New York
New York City might feel like every other bar is an Irish bar, but there’s a difference between the typical “Irish bar” branding and a proper Irish-owned or Irish-inspired establishment.
So here are some of my favourite and top Irish bars to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in New York:
1. Mary O’s (East Village) – For a Fresh Scone
Location: 32 Avenue A, East Village
Mary O’s has that homey feel with genuine Irish fare. Try the scones, soda bread, or also a traditional Irish breakfast if you’re up early.
The owner, Mary, also hails from Ireland, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite.
2. The Dead Rabbit (Financial District) – Award-Winning Cocktails
Location: 30 Water Street, Financial District
Voted “World’s Best Bar” multiple times, The Dead Rabbit combines an old-world Irish pub aesthetic downstairs with an innovative cocktail parlour upstairs.
Yes, you can still get a Guinness here, but you’d be missing out if you skipped their famous Irish coffee or any of their inventive mixed drinks.
3. The Long Hall (Midtown) – A Cozy Midtown Gem
Location: 58 East 34th Street, Midtown East
Styled after a traditional Dublin pub, The Long Hall is also an excellent choice if you’re exploring Midtown.
Think dark wood interiors, a laid-back atmosphere, and a menu featuring both Irish classics and American pub grub.
4. Swift (East Village) – Classic Irish Pub Atmosphere
Location: 34 East 4th Street, East Village
Named after the Anglo-Irish writer Jonathan Swift, Swift is a local favourite for its warm ambiance and well-chosen beer list.
Drop by for live music sessions, especially if you’re here for St. Patrick’s Day in New York. Their Guinness is also said to be the best in the whole city.
5. Kelly’s (Lower East Side) – The Sports & Spirits Haven
Location: 12 Avenue A, Lower East Side
A perfect blend of Irish pub meets American sports bar, Kelly’s is known for its welcoming staff and also lively atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a place to watch a Gaelic football match (or even just the Knicks game), Kelly’s has you covered.
6. Sláinte (Bowery) – Irish Name, Welcoming Vibe
Location: 304 Bowery, East Village/Bowery
“Sláinte” means “cheers” in Irish Gaelic, and that’s exactly the sentiment you’ll feel when you walk in.
It’s a straightforward, down-to-earth spot with friendly bartenders, quality pints, and also a rotating schedule of live music.
7. Tír na nÓg (Times Square) – A Friendly Gathering Spot
Locations: 315 West 39th Street, Times Square
This spot is so ideal for a post-parade pint if you find yourself near Midtown.
Tír na nÓg means “Land of Youth” in Irish mythology, and these pubs indeed have a spirited, contemporary vibe while retaining Irish warmth.
8. McSorley’s Old Ale House (East Village) – NYC’s Oldest Irish Tavern
Location: 15 East 7th Street, East Village
Established in 1854, McSorley’s is dripping in history. Sawdust on the floor, old newspaper clippings on the walls, and also a menu that’s (almost) as old as the bar.
The choice of drink is so simple: light ale or dark ale. You can’t call yourself an Irish pub connoisseur in New York until you’ve drank in McSorley’s.
9. Triona’s (Greenwich Village) – Friendly Neighbourhood Bar
Location: 237 Sullivan Street, Greenwich Village
Known for great service and an unpretentious setting, Triona’s is the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with a local or fellow traveller.
It’s so perfect if you want a cozy, casual spot with plenty of Irish spirit.
If you are planning to visit during St. Patrick’s Day in New York, make sure to check out my New York travel vlogs on YouTube so you can see where I recommend to stay, eat and my top things to see and do during your trip:
7. Grabbing a Guinness and Splitting the ‘G’
No St. Patrick’s Day in New York is complete without a pint of Guinness.
If you’re new to the tradition of “splitting the G,” here’s the quick run-down: As you sip your Guinness, try to line your mouth up so your lips split the letter “G” in the word “Guinness” on the glass.
It’s a playful, age-old Irish tradition that’s guaranteed to start a conversation with your new pub pals.
While the smooth, creamy stout is the star of the show, don’t forget about other Irish beverages like Smithwick’s or a good Irish whiskey. And remember, pace yourself if you’re making a day of it!
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8. Soaking Up Irish History
Below are three spots and tours I’d recommend visiting in New York to learn more about Irish history in the city and also the connection between Ireland and America.
1. Tenement Museum (Lower East Side)
Location: 103 Orchard Street, Lower East Side
If there’s one place that will truly open your eyes to the immigrant experience, particularly for the Irish, it’s the Tenement Museum.
This is also my favourite museum in all of New York City, hands down.
Housed in historic tenement buildings, the museum offers guided tours that chronicle the lives of immigrant families who once lived there, including the Irish. You’ll learn about their struggles, their resilience, and also the tight-knit communities they formed.
Insider Tip: Book tickets in advance, as tours fill up quickly. Especially around major holidays like St. Patrick’s Day in New York.
2. Irish Hunger Memorial (Battery Park City)
Location: Vesey Street, Battery Park City
The Irish Hunger Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the Great Famine that forced so many Irish to leave their homeland in the mid-1800s.
The design incorporates an authentic Irish cottage, stones from each of Ireland’s 32 counties, and also real flora native to Ireland.
It offers a peaceful, reflective space amidst the hustle and bustle of Lower Manhattan. An excellent spot to pay your respects and also remember the hardships that shaped Irish-American history.
3. Like A Local Tour (Multiple Locations)
Like A Local Tours are a local, independent tour operation in New York City offering tours around Manhattan and also Brooklyn.
We participated in their Williamsburg food tour and also their Lower East Side, Chinatown and Little Italy tour.
I’d highly recommend both tours, but to learn about immigration (and Irish immigration in particular), you should join the Lower East Side tour.
Make sure to use my code ORLAGH10 to grab 10% off your tour too!
9. Tips for a Memorable St. Patrick’s Day in New York
So if you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in New York, these are my top tips to have a successful and very Irish day:
- Arrive Early for the Parade: If you want a decent view, head to Fifth Avenue early in the morning. The best vantage points fill up fast.
- Layer Up: March weather in New York can be so unpredictable. It can be sunny one day, and so chilly the next. Bring a coat, scarf, or at least a warm sweater.
- Use Public Transportation: The subways and buses will be packed, but driving is generally a nightmare with all the road closures and traffic. Opt for the MTA or also a good pair of walking shoes.
- Pace Your Day: There’s a lot to see and do, from the parade to pub-hopping to museum visits. Set a comfortable schedule so you can enjoy everything without feeling rushed or overindulging too early.
- Respect the Locals (and Yourself): New Yorkers are used to big celebrations, but that doesn’t mean we should forget our manners. So be kind to bar staff, fellow revellers, and your own body. Hydration is key when you’re out and about all day!
- Plan Some Cultural Stops: Mixing pub visits with spots like the Tenement Museum or the Irish Hunger Memorial will enrich your understanding of Irish history and also give your day a satisfying balance.
10. Most of All, Enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in New York City!
St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is a memorable celebration that beautifully captures the spirit of Irish resilience, humour, and also unity.
Whether you’re admiring bagpipers at the parade, tucking into a scone at Mary O’s, or reflecting on the journeys of Irish immigrants at the Tenement Museum, you’ll feel the unmistakable sense of connection that pulses through this city each March 17.
In 2025, treat yourself to the full Irish St. Patrick’s Day in New York experience. Watch the grand parade, wander the streets of Woodlawn, warm up in an authentic Irish pub, and also cap off the day by “splitting the G” on a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
Take time to learn about the history of Irish immigrants, the hardships they faced and also the triumphs they achieved. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the holiday, the culture, and the city that has become a second home for so many Irish families over the decades.
So no matter how you decide to spend your St. Patrick’s Day in New York, one thing’s for sure: 2025 will be a year to remember.
So throw on your favourite green sweater, raise a glass, and toast to good friends, good times, and the enduring legacy of Irish heritage in New York City.
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