St. Patrick’s Day is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, history, and traditions, and the D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia (DMV) region is the perfect place to experience the festivities. From lively parades to authentic Irish pubs, the area offers a wide variety of activities to help you celebrate this beloved holiday. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a traditional Irish meal, experience the colorful parade, or immerse yourself in live music and dancing, there’s something for everyone.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades
What would St. Patrick’s Day be without a parade to celebrate the day? The DMV area hosts several parades filled with festive energy, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Irish culture. From bagpipes to Irish dancers and everything in between, these parades are a great way to dive into the festivities.
Washington, D.C. St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Where? National Mall
When? March 9th, 11am
Washington, D.C.’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the most exciting and colorful events in the region. This annual celebration showcases the city’s rich Irish-American heritage with a parade filled with marching bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers, and colorful floats. The parade typically kicks off in the morning and winds its way through downtown D.C., offering spectators a chance to experience the festive spirit up close.
Arrive early to grab a good spot along the parade route, which typically runs from the National Archives to the Capitol. Bring a blanket or folding chair for a more comfortable viewing experience.
Annapolis St. Patrick’s Day Parade



Where? 1 Main St, Annapolis, MD
When? Sunday, March 9th, 2025 at 1 p.m.
Annapolis, Maryland, is home to one of the most charming and lively St. Patrick’s Day parades in the DMV area. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the historic downtown district, this parade is a must-see for those who want to experience St. Patrick’s Day in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Expect to see bagpipers, Irish dancers, local marching bands, and plenty of green-clad participants.
After the parade, the festivities continue with a vibrant mix of Irish-themed events around town, especially at the local pubs and restaurants. The streets of Annapolis fill with people enjoying food, drinks, and live music, making it a great place to spend the afternoon.
Annapolis is known for its waterfront charm, so after the parade, take some time to explore the scenic harbor and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic district before heading to one of the local Irish pubs for a pint of Guinness.
Irish Pubs and Restaurants for St. Patrick’s Day Feasts
When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, there’s nothing quite like indulging in delicious Irish food and drinks at one of the area’s authentic Irish pubs. From hearty meals of corned beef and cabbage to a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, the DMV region offers a variety of great spots to experience Irish hospitality and cuisine.
The Old Ebbitt Grill
Where? 675 15th St NW, Washington, D.C.
For those who want to experience a lively, historic setting on St. Patrick’s Day, The Old Ebbitt Grill is an iconic D.C. institution. While known for its oysters and seafood, this historic restaurant and bar also offers a full Irish-inspired menu during the St. Patrick’s Day season. Expect hearty Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and Irish soda bread, paired with a selection of Irish whiskeys and pints of Guinness.
The Old Ebbitt Grill tends to get busy during St. Patrick’s Day, so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, especially if you plan on dining during peak hours.
The Irish Channel
Where? 500 H St NW, Washington, D.C.
For a more relaxed atmosphere with a great selection of Irish beers, The Irish Channel offers a cozy spot for St. Patrick’s Day revelry. With a large selection of beers on tap and hearty Irish dishes, it’s the ideal place to kick back and enjoy the festivities. Known for its friendly service and welcoming environment, The Irish Channel offers a warm place to celebrate with friends and family.
The Irish Channel is known for hosting live Irish music performances, so check the schedule to see if there’s a band playing on St. Patrick’s Day for an authentic experience.
The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant
Where? 2500 Columbia Pike UPPER LEVEL, Arlington, VA
Located just outside D.C. in Arlington, The Celtic House offers a traditional Irish pub experience with a great selection of Irish dishes and drinks. It’s the perfect spot for anyone in Northern Virginia looking to celebrate. You can enjoy favorites like corned beef and cabbage, bangers and mash, and a hearty Irish breakfast, all washed down with a pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey.
The Celtic House tends to get busy on St. Patrick’s Day, so try to make a reservation to ensure you have a table, or arrive early to snag a good spot.
Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Restaurant


Where? 112 King St, Alexandria, VA
Daniel O’Connell’s is a Northern Virginia favorite for those looking for an authentic Irish pub experience. Offering a wide range of Irish dishes and a selection of drinks, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Be sure to try the shepherd’s pie or their famous Irish breakfast for an authentic taste of Ireland.
Daniel O’Connell’s is known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, so plan to spend some time here chatting with friends over a pint or two.
Ireland’s Four Provinces
Where? 105 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA
Located in the heart of Falls Church, Ireland’s Four Provinces is a neighborhood gem that offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This pub serves up traditional Irish fare like corned beef, shepherd’s pie, and hearty stews, all while offering a fantastic selection of Irish beers and whiskeys.
The pub features live traditional Irish music on St. Patrick’s Day, so check their schedule and prepare for a lively evening of music, food, and drink.
Irish Cultural Celebrations
Besides parade routes and restaurants, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate the St. Patrick’s Day holiday. In addition to parades and Irish pubs, the DMV area offers a variety of cultural events that immerse visitors in the rich traditions and history of Ireland. From live music to traditional Irish dancing, these events provide a deeper connection to the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.
Smithsonian National Museum of American History – Irish American Heritage


Where? 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, D.C.
To immerse yourself in the cultural aspects of St. Patrick’s Day, head to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. The museum’s Irish American heritage exhibit showcases the history and contributions of Irish immigrants to the United States, including their role in the Civil War, labor movements, and the arts. It’s a great way to learn more about the significance of St. Patrick’s Day and Irish-American culture.
Solemnity of St. Patrick at St. Patrick Catholic Church
Where? 619 10th St NW, Washington, D.C.
When? Monday, March 17th, 2025 at 12:15 p.m.
For those who want to experience a more reflective and spiritual side of St. Patrick’s Day, consider attending a Mass at St. Patrick Catholic Church. The church holds a special service in honor of St. Patrick, celebrating his life and the contributions of Irish Catholics to the faith. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe the solemnity of the holiday in a meaningful way before continuing the festivities.
Arrive early as services at St. Patrick’s can fill up quickly on St. Patrick’s Day. The church also often offers a reception afterward, allowing visitors to gather and discuss the day’s significance.
St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawls and Nightlife
Even when the day drinking winds down, the festivities don’t have to stop! The DMV area offers a variety of exciting pub crawls and nightlife events that keep the St. Patrick’s Day spirit alive well into the evening. Whether you’re looking for an all-day crawl or a lively night out, there’s something for everyone in the area.
Washington, D.C. St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
When? Saturday, March 15th, 2025
For those who want to experience the best of Washington D.C.’s nightlife, the St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl is a must-do event. With dozens of bars participating in this fun-filled crawl, you’ll have the chance to enjoy Irish-themed cocktails, green beer, and drink specials at some of the city’s most popular pubs and clubs. The crawl typically lasts throughout the day and night, with participants visiting multiple venues in D.C.’s lively neighborhoods like Dupont Circle, U Street, and the Wharf.
Be sure to wear your green attire and get your hands on the official pub crawl wristband for access to all participating bars and exclusive deals.
Ireland at The Wharf



Where? District Pier (101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024)
When? Saturday, March 15th, 2025 from 12-6 p.m.
The Wharf in D.C. hosts a fabulous St. Patrick’s Day celebration with live performances, Irish food, and themed drinks. The waterfront area transforms into a lively venue, where you can enjoy the festive spirit while taking in stunning views of the river. With several bars, restaurants, and outdoor spaces offering St. Patrick’s Day specials, you can enjoy a variety of experiences at The Wharf.
Visit a few different spots along the Wharf to soak in the full experience. Don’t miss out on the outdoor concerts and dance performances that are often scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day is a Green Celebration for All
From lively parades and festive pub crawls to traditional Irish music and cultural celebrations, the DMV area truly comes alive on St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty Irish meal at a local pub, taking part in a parade, or dancing to live Irish tunes, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in the spirit of Ireland.
D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia offer a rich blend of traditions and modern celebrations, making it the perfect destination for anyone wanting to experience the best of St. Patrick’s Day. So, gather your friends, wear your green, and head out to celebrate with great food, drinks, and plenty of festive cheer. Whether you’re in the heart of D.C. or exploring the charming streets of Alexandria, you’re sure to have a memorable time.
Cheers to a fun and festive St. Patrick’s Day in the DMV!