6 Exciting Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in NYC

St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is more than just the historic parade – there's parties, live music, cultural festivities, and more.

September 11, 2024

St. Patrick’s Day Events in NYC

St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is a big deal, and it's not just about the famous parade that's been going on since 1762. The city comes alive with parties, live music, cultural celebrations, and more. We've curated this list of festive activities happening around the city on March 17th to help you choose a celebration that suits your travel style best.

If this is your first time reading our travel blog, here’s our introduction. We connect local travel advisors to overnight visitors so they can collaborate on a personalized travel itinerary and save time planning things to do. Space is limited. Reserve time with our team early.

On to the list

How to Spend St. Patrick's Day in New York

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The highlight of the day, The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, will make its way up 5th Avenue from 44th Street to 79th Street, passing by the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Kicking off at 11:00 AM and concluding at 4:30 PM, this year’s Grand Marshal is Margaret C. “Maggie” Timoney, the CEO of Heineken USA. Keep in mind that this event tends to draw a lively crowd, with many attendees looking to enjoy some drinks.

St. Patrick’s Day Party Cruise

Party cruises on either the East River or the Hudson are always a great way to celebrate any holiday in the city. For St. Patrick’s Day there’s plenty to choose from. Event Cruises NYC, a reliable and reasonably priced yacht party company, hosts a St. Patrick’s Day party cruise that promises an unforgettable experience with themed cocktails, party favors, classic Irish beers, and a live DJ.

Irish Mob Tour

Squeeze in some cardio while diving into the city’s history and Irish American culture on the Hidden New York’s Irish Mob Tour in Hell’s Kitchen. Not only does this tour offer a unique way to spend the day, but it's conveniently located near Times Square and Rockefeller Center. Snag the 6 pm slot, and you can easily blend it with the parade or other sightseeing activities.

The Sober St. Patrick's Day ​grand Celebration

For non-drinkers, St. Patrick’s Day might seem like a celebration they miss out on. For those who would prefer a dry event, Sober St. Patrick’s Day presents an alcohol-free grand celebration with a historical and cultural focus in Midtown.

FREE Trip Planner

Live Music At One Of The City’s Many Irish Pubs

Every NYC borough boasts its own Irish neighborhood bars. Check out our comprehensive list of Irish Pubs for more options. On St. On Patrick's Day, most Irish Pubs in Manhattan will open early and many will feature live traditional Irish music (also called seisiúns).

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue

Spend some time exploring the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 5th Avenue, right across from Rockefeller Center. It serves as a focal point during the parade and is a must-see during any trip to NYC. Whether or not you attend the parade, stepping in to admire the Neo-Gothic architecture is worthwhile. Additionally, the Cathedral hosts a special St. Patrick’s Day mass each year.

Our team of trip consultants builds tailored plans for travelers from around the world visiting NYC. We’ve built a wide range of plans for family trips, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions, even for solo travelers treating themselves. Each plan is built with a 3-step process: 

Step 1: Bucket your must-see attractions 

Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems 

Step 3: Create a custom map and provide transportation tips, so you know the best way to navigate the city. 

Click here to have our team tailor your New York trip itinerary today or check out a few of our sample plans here.

St. Patrick’s Day Events in NYC

St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is a big deal, and it's not just about the famous parade that's been going on since 1762. The city comes alive with parties, live music, cultural celebrations, and more. We've curated this list of festive activities happening around the city on March 17th to help you choose a celebration that suits your travel style best.

If this is your first time reading our travel blog, here’s our introduction. We connect local travel advisors to overnight visitors so they can collaborate on a personalized travel itinerary and save time planning things to do. Space is limited. Reserve time with our team early.

On to the list

How to Spend St. Patrick's Day in New York

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The highlight of the day, The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, will make its way up 5th Avenue from 44th Street to 79th Street, passing by the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Kicking off at 11:00 AM and concluding at 4:30 PM, this year’s Grand Marshal is Margaret C. “Maggie” Timoney, the CEO of Heineken USA. Keep in mind that this event tends to draw a lively crowd, with many attendees looking to enjoy some drinks.

St. Patrick’s Day Party Cruise

Party cruises on either the East River or the Hudson are always a great way to celebrate any holiday in the city. For St. Patrick’s Day there’s plenty to choose from. Event Cruises NYC, a reliable and reasonably priced yacht party company, hosts a St. Patrick’s Day party cruise that promises an unforgettable experience with themed cocktails, party favors, classic Irish beers, and a live DJ.

Irish Mob Tour

Squeeze in some cardio while diving into the city’s history and Irish American culture on the Hidden New York’s Irish Mob Tour in Hell’s Kitchen. Not only does this tour offer a unique way to spend the day, but it's conveniently located near Times Square and Rockefeller Center. Snag the 6 pm slot, and you can easily blend it with the parade or other sightseeing activities.

The Sober St. Patrick's Day ​grand Celebration

For non-drinkers, St. Patrick’s Day might seem like a celebration they miss out on. For those who would prefer a dry event, Sober St. Patrick’s Day presents an alcohol-free grand celebration with a historical and cultural focus in Midtown.

FREE Trip Planner

Live Music At One Of The City’s Many Irish Pubs

Every NYC borough boasts its own Irish neighborhood bars. Check out our comprehensive list of Irish Pubs for more options. On St. On Patrick's Day, most Irish Pubs in Manhattan will open early and many will feature live traditional Irish music (also called seisiúns).

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue

Spend some time exploring the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 5th Avenue, right across from Rockefeller Center. It serves as a focal point during the parade and is a must-see during any trip to NYC. Whether or not you attend the parade, stepping in to admire the Neo-Gothic architecture is worthwhile. Additionally, the Cathedral hosts a special St. Patrick’s Day mass each year.

Our team of trip consultants builds tailored plans for travelers from around the world visiting NYC. We’ve built a wide range of plans for family trips, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions, even for solo travelers treating themselves. Each plan is built with a 3-step process: 

Step 1: Bucket your must-see attractions 

Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems 

Step 3: Create a custom map and provide transportation tips, so you know the best way to navigate the city. 

Click here to have our team tailor your New York trip itinerary today or check out a few of our sample plans here.

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