How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most celebrated holidays in NYC. Every year, the city puts on a variety of events and festivities to honor Irish culture and traditions while people of all backgrounds enjoy themselves. Whether you’ve lived in New York your whole life or you’re just visiting for a weekend, there are plenty of ways to get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit. Here’s how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC.
The Most Popular St. Patrick’s Day Events in NYC
March 17th is the official St. Patrick’s Day, but events and activities start taking place weeks before. Here are some of the most popular ways to celebrate the holiday in New York City:
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The St. Patrick’s Day Parade: The annual parade is held on the fifth Saturday of March and winds its way through midtown Manhattan, beginning at 11am at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street and ending at 79th Street. The event features marching bands, countless floats, and endless displays of Irish culture.
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Irish Festivals: There are many Irish festivals throughout the city on St. Patrick’s Day. The most popular event takes place in arty Brooklyn. This festival celebrates Irish culture with live music and various vendors selling food and souvenirs.
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Pub Crawls: There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday than to partake in a traditional pub crawl. Pub crawls usually run from the afternoon to late at night, featuring Irish pubs and bars throughout the city.
Tips for Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC
If you’re planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, here are some tips that’ll come in handy:
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Wear green: On St. Patrick’s Day, everyone usually dresses up in green clothes. If you don’t have anything green, grab a pair of green socks or a green hat.
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Buy tickets in advance: Some of the city’s most popular St. Patrick’s Day events tend to sell out quickly. So, it’s best to buy tickets in advance if you don’t want to be disappointed.
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Have a designated driver: Drinking alcohol is undoubtedly part of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in NYC, but it’s also important to be safe. If you plan on doing a pub crawl, make sure you have a designated driver to get you back home safely.
Irish-Themed Restaurants and Pubs to Visit on St. Patrick’s Day
When celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, there are many Irish-themed restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy traditional Irish food and drinks. Here are some of the best places to go:
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McSorley’s Old Ale House: This establishment first opened its doors in the 1860s and continues to be a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. You can sample the pub’s signature brews or enjoy a traditional meal like shepherd’s pie.
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The Dead Rabbit: This two-story pub in the heart of the Financial District serves a range of Irish drinks and snacks, including whiskey-based cocktails and Irish favorites like fish and chips.
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The Stout NYC: This bar and restaurant is located in midtown Manhattan, just steps away from Times Square. It offers a wide selection of craft beers and Irish-inspired bar bites.
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Ceol Irish Pub: Offering a lively and homey atmosphere, the Ceol Irish Pub is located in Park Slope, and serves classic Irish food along with a great assortment of beers, ales, and stouts.
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The Shannon Pot: Part pub, part Irish eatery, the Shannon Pot is located in the West Village and features classic dishes like bangers and mash as well as modern takes on traditional Irish recipes.
St. Patrick’s Day Shopping in NYC
When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, you can’t forget the shopping! Here are some of the best stores to find unique Irish gifts and souvenirs in NYC:
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Dunne’s: This store specializes in Irish gifts with locations on the Upper West Side and in the East Village. It’s the perfect place to find traditional Irish apparel, jewelry, and kitchenware.
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Kerry Earrings: Located near Gramercy Park, Kerry Earrings is a great place to find authentic Irish-made jewelry, including pendants, earrings, and necklaces.
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Irish Gift Center: This store in Times Square has been in business since 1991 and is still one of the best places to find Irish gifts, such as sweaters, shawls, crystal, and pottery.
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Limerick Square: Limerick Square has been selling Irish-made goods since 1979 and is known for its wide selection of traditional Irish sweaters, jewelry, and other items. You can find this shop located in Rockefeller Center.
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Irish Arts Center: This center is home to a selection of Irish-made items, such as artwork, books, CDs, and jewelry. It’s also a great place to find rare Irish artifacts and antiques.
No matter how you choose to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in NYC, you’re sure to have a great time. From the lively parades and festivals, to the quaint Irish pubs and boutiques, there are plenty of ways to commemorate the celebration of Irish Heritage. So, gather your friends and loved ones and make your way to the Big Apple for a memorable St. Patrick’s Day experience!
