New York City continues to have the largest population of Irish Americans in the United States. To that end, March 17, Saint Patrick’s Day, is one of the most popular New York City holidays and its parade is the largest of its kind in the world. It is in fact, older than the Declaration of Independence; the first NYC Saint Patrick’s Day Parade took place in 1762.
Photo: Joe Buglewicz
Each year, the televised parade draws millions of spectators, from all walks of life, and all nationalities. On this day, everyone is Irish (even Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who was born in Britain to a Christian family of Roman citizenship), as revelers line up along Fifth Avenue from 44th Street to 79th Street to catch a glimpse of the bagpipers and marching bands. This year’s Grand Marshall will be Cardinal Timothy Dolan. And the official drink of Ireland, Guinness, is back as the parade sponsor. The brewer is returning since LGBT affinity group Out@NBC has been given the green light to march.
NYC Saint Patrick’s Day parade kicks off at 11am. For more parade info, visit nycstpatricksparade.org
For information on events at the Irish Arts Center, visit irishartscenter.org
Can't have Saint Patrick's Day without beer! Check out our roundup of great places to grab a pint and celebrate.
Beer afficionados can get started early with the NYC Craft Beer Festival, which will take place at the Lexington Avenue Armory, March 13-14.
Make Heartland Brewery your celebration destination after the parade! Wear a "Heartland Brewery NYC Drinking Team" tshirt and score $5 pints of Kelly's Red Ale (all locations). Heartland Brewery will also be serving Corned Beef and Cabbage and Shepard's Pie.
Benjamin Steakhouse and The Sea Fire Grill will be offering an extended Happy Hour all day long!
Events
Bateaux is hosting a special Saint Patrick’s Day Dinner Cruise.
BB Kings-Badfish tribute to Sublime
Bell House-Wasabassco's Fifth Annual Saint Patrick's Day Event (Burlesque-partying for the 21+ crowd.)
