St. Patrick's Day Getaways to Remember

March is here, and with it comes the beloved St. Patrick's Day! Whether you're drawn to lively parades, rich cultural experiences, or simply enjoy the festivities, there's no better way to celebrate than with a dedicated getaway.

Dublin, Ireland: The Authentic Experience

There's no place quite like Dublin to experience St. Patrick's Day in its full glory. The Irish capital transforms into a sea of green with a multi-day festival culminating in the grand St. Patrick's Festival Parade on March 17th.

Beyond the parade, visitors can enjoy live music performances throughout the city, traditional Irish dancing, and special exhibitions highlighting Irish culture and history. Don't miss the chance to tour the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn to pour the perfect pint and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar.

Where to Stay

Book accommodations in the Temple Bar area for easy access to festivities, or consider the more residential Ballsbridge neighborhood for a quieter retreat after the celebrations.

Chicago, Illinois: Green Rivers and Grand Parades

Chicago knows how to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style! The city's most famous tradition is dyeing the Chicago River a vibrant emerald green—a spectacular sight that draws thousands of spectators each year. This grand display is followed by one of the largest St. Patrick's Day parades in the United States.

The Chicago festivities have a distinctly American flair while honoring the city's strong Irish heritage. Local Irish pubs throughout the city offer special events, live music, and traditional Irish fare throughout the weekend.

Planning Tip

Chicago typically holds its St. Patrick's Day parade and river dyeing on the Saturday before March 17th, so plan accordingly if you want to witness these iconic events.

Boston, Massachusetts: America's Irish Heart

With one of America's largest Irish-American populations, Boston hosts a St. Patrick's Day celebration steeped in history and tradition. The South Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade dates back to 1901 and winds through the historically Irish neighborhood of South Boston (affectionately known as "Southie").

Beyond the parade, Boston offers Irish-themed pub crawls, special concerts featuring Irish musicians, and cultural events throughout the city. History buffs will appreciate the chance to explore the city's deep Irish heritage through specialized walking tours available during the season.

Local Experience

For an authentic experience, catch an Irish music session at The Burren in Somerville or enjoy traditional Irish fare at Greenhills Irish Bakery in Dorchester.

Savannah, Georgia: Southern Charm Meets Irish Tradition

Perhaps surprising to some, Savannah hosts one of the largest St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States. The city's historic downtown transforms into a massive street party, with a parade featuring over 350 units marching through the historic district.

What makes Savannah's celebration unique is the blend of Southern hospitality with Irish traditions, creating a festive atmosphere unlike any other. The city's open container laws allow visitors to enjoy their beverages while strolling through the beautiful squares and parks adorned in green for the occasion.

New Orleans, Louisiana: A Unique Twist on Tradition

New Orleans puts its own unique spin on St. Patrick's Day with multiple parades and block parties throughout the city. The most famous tradition involves parade floats where riders toss cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and other ingredients for an Irish stew to spectators lining the routes.

The Irish Channel neighborhood hosts the main parade and block party, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy Irish music, dancing, and cuisine with that special New Orleans flair.

Planning Your St. Patrick's Day Getaway

No matter which destination you choose, here are some tips to make the most of your St. Patrick's Day adventure:

• Book accommodations well in advance, as hotels in popular St. Patrick's Day destinations fill up quickly
• Pack plenty of green attire to get into the festive spirit
• Research parade routes and event schedules before your trip
• Make dinner reservations at popular Irish restaurants ahead of time
• Consider visiting for the entire weekend, as many cities host events before and after March 17th

Whether you're of Irish descent or simply enjoy joining in the celebration, a St. Patrick's Day getaway offers a wonderful opportunity to experience unique traditions, delicious food and drink, and jubilant atmospheres in cities across the world.