The St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are about to kick off in New England, bringing an array of festivities from parades to pub crawls. Whether you’re a fan of live music, dance performances, or plunging into icy waters for a good cause, there’s something for everyone across all the New England states.
Embracing Irish Heritage in Vermont
The Burlington Irish Heritage Festival in Vermont is celebrating its 30th anniversary this March with a lineup of concerts, poetry readings, and dance performances. An exciting addition to this year’s festivities is the presence of an authentic seanchaí, a traditional Irish storyteller and historian. The main event at Contois Auditorium on Sunday, March 16 will feature a performance by The Murphy Beds. You can find the full festival schedule on their website to plan your visit to this cultural celebration.
Bar Hopping in Providence, Rhode Island
In Providence, Rhode Island, you can immerse yourself in the “Luck of the Irish” St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl. This event offers free entry to participating bars, where you can enjoy live music, drink specials, and giveaways. By purchasing a ticket online, you’ll receive a pub crawl lanyard and a digital map of the event. The pub crawl will take place on Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16 from 4 to 10 p.m. at various bars in Providence, Rhode Island. Don’t miss out on this festive opportunity to explore the local nightlife scene.
Celebrating with Music and Competitions in Connecticut
Connecticut is hosting the 7th Annual Shenanigans Irish Festival at Stony Creek Brewery in Branford. This event promises live music, vendors, competitions, and more. The entertainment lineup includes performances by the band Black Ties and Bourbon, The New Haven County Firefighters Emerald Society Pipes and Drums band, and DJ Nate. Visitors will also receive a free beer with their ticket purchase. Head to 5 Indian Neck Ave., Branford, Connecticut on Saturday, March 15 at noon to join in on the St. Patrick’s Day fun.
The St. Patrick’s Day festivities continue with the iconic Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a 124-year-old Massachusetts tradition organized by the Allied War Veterans Council of South Boston. Grab your green attire and find a spot along the three-mile route to witness marching groups, floats, and bands parade through the streets. The event will take place on Sunday, March 17 at 1 p.m., starting at the Broadway MBTA station. This family-friendly celebration is free for all ages to enjoy.
If you’re feeling brave, make your way to East End Beach in Portland, Maine for the Rí Rá Paddy’s Day Plunge. This 24-year tradition involves taking a cold dip in the water to raise money for the Portland Firefighters Children’s Burn Foundation. Following the plunge, participants can gather at Rí Rá Irish Pub & Restaurant for a St. Patrick’s Day Irish breakfast, raffle, and other festivities. If jumping into icy waters isn’t your cup of tea, you can still contribute to the cause by making a donation. Join in on this charitable event on Monday, March 17 at 5:30 a.m. at East End Beach in Portland, Maine.
New Hampshire is gearing up for the 28th annual Manchester St. Patrick’s Parade on Sunday, March 30 at noon. This event is strategically scheduled on the last Sunday of March to avoid overlapping with the parades in Boston and New York. Organizers promise a lively atmosphere with quality bands, floats, and marching units, bringing the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day to the streets of Manchester. The parade will start at Salmon and Elm streets and is free for all ages to attend.
As you plan your St. Patrick’s Day adventures in New England, keep an eye out for more cultural events and celebrations across the region. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live performances, explore local pubs, or support charitable causes, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the Irish spirit this holiday season. Cheers to a festive and memorable St. Patrick’s Day in New England!
