St. Patrick’s Day is a vibrant celebration observed across the United States, showcasing parades that honor Irish culture and heritage. Here’s a guide to the top twelve unmissable St. Patrick’s Day parades in 2026.
1. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago boasts a thriving Irish-American community with an estimated 200,000 residents. The city’s famous St. Patrick’s Day parade returns on Saturday, March 14, 2026. It will take place along Columbus Drive, starting after the traditional dyeing of the Chicago River green at 10:00 a.m., a highlight since 1962.
2. New York, New York
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the oldest, dating back to 1762. On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the 265th parade commences at 11:00 a.m. on Fifth Avenue. With around 150,000 participants and nearly two million spectators, it’s a spectacle not to miss, ending around 4:30 p.m.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
With 20% of its population claiming Irish ancestry, Boston’s South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade is legendary. Scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, the parade honors Evacuation Day, recalling the British troops’ departure in 1776 and kicks off near Broadway T station at 11:30 a.m.
4. Denver, Colorado
On Saturday, March 14, 2026, Denver will host one of the most significant St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S. The event starts at 9:30 a.m. near Union Station and is expected to attract around 300,000 attendees. This year’s theme is “Stars, Stripes and Shamrocks.”
5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the oldest in the country, will occur on Sunday, March 15, 2026, starting at 11:00 a.m. at 16th and JFK. The event is expected to feature over 20,000 participants and lasts about three hours.
6. Savannah, Georgia
On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the Savannah Parade kicks off at 10:15 a.m. It begins after a morning Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. With its green fountains and historic squares, Savannah provides a charming backdrop for this lively celebration.
7. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s Corktown St. Patrick’s Day Parade will celebrate its 68th edition on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The parade starts at 1:00 p.m. on Michigan Avenue. Mass will precede the parade at Most Holy Trinity Church, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere.
8. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Pittsburgh is set for Saturday, March 11, 2026, starting at 10:00 a.m. The event is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of spectators, with a special Parade Day Dash taking place beforehand.
9. San Francisco, California
In 2026, San Francisco will celebrate the 175th anniversary of its St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The festivities will begin on Saturday, March 14, at 11:30 a.m., featuring over 100 floats and attracting around 100,000 spectators.
10. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans will host its Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Starting at Felicity and Magazine, this parade uniquely incorporates ingredients for Irish stew as throws, ensuring a festive atmosphere.
11. Cleveland, Ohio
The Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, beginning at 1:04 p.m. The parade’s themes will celebrate Irish and Irish American contributions to the United States, marking a significant year for attendees.
12. Kansas City, Missouri
On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, Kansas City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off at 11:30 a.m. The parade will feature the theme “Irish Kicks in 26: A Celebration of Sport,” showcasing the city’s enthusiastic spirit since its inception in 1974.
These parades offer a wonderful opportunity for communities to celebrate their cultural heritage and come together in joy and festivity. Be sure to mark your calendars for these unmissable St. Patrick’s Day events across the nation!
