Ah, St. Patrick’s Day – a time when the streets of Philadelphia are painted green, and the city comes alive with the sounds of Irish music, laughter, and good cheer. Whether you’re Irish by blood or Irish at heart, there’s no better place to celebrate this beloved holiday than in the City of Brotherly Love. From festive parades to lively pubs, we’ve rounded up the best places to get your green on and join in the St. Paddy’s Day festivities in Philadelphia.
1. Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade:
Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with the annual Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the oldest and largest parades in the country. Join thousands of revelers as they line the streets of Center City to watch colorful floats, marching bands, and Irish dancers make their way down Market Street. It’s a time-honored tradition that’s not to be missed!
After the parade, head over to Fado Irish Pub in Center City for a true taste of Ireland. With its cozy atmosphere, authentic Irish fare, and extensive selection of Irish whiskey and beer, Fado is the perfect spot to continue the St. Paddy’s Day festivities. Enjoy live music, traditional Irish dancers, and plenty of craic (fun) as you raise a pint to the luck of the Irish.
No St. Patrick’s Day celebration would be complete without a visit to McGillin’s Olde Ale House, Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern. Step inside this historic pub and soak up the lively atmosphere as you mingle with fellow revelers and enjoy a pint of their famous green beer. With its warm hospitality and rich heritage, McGillin’s is the epitome of Irish hospitality in the heart of Philadelphia.
4. St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl:
For those looking to hop from pub to pub and explore Philadelphia’s vibrant bar scene, the St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl is the ultimate way to celebrate. Grab your friends, don your greenest attire, and embark on a pub crawl through some of the city’s best bars and taverns. With drink specials, live music, and festive decorations at every stop, it’s sure to be a day to remember.
For a taste of Ireland in the heart of University City, head to Con Murphy’s Irish Pub. Named after the famous Irish revolutionary, Con Murphy’s offers an authentic Irish pub experience complete with traditional Irish cuisine, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find plenty of Irish favorites on the menu, including bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and of course, corned beef and cabbage.
Join the annual Erin Express, a beloved St. Patrick’s Day tradition in Philadelphia. This free pub crawl takes participants on a tour of some of the city’s best bars and taverns aboard a fleet of buses. With designated stops throughout the city, it’s a convenient and safe way to explore Philadelphia’s bustling bar scene while enjoying drink specials, live music, and festive camaraderie.
7. Philadelphia Irish Festival:
For a family-friendly celebration of Irish culture and heritage, don’t miss the Philadelphia Irish Festival. Held at Penn’s Landing, this day-long event features live music and dance performances, traditional Irish food and drink, artisan vendors, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re of Irish descent or simply Irish for the day, it’s a fun and festive way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the whole family.
Nestled in the heart of Bella Vista, Hawthornes Beer Café offers a cozy and eclectic atmosphere perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a delightful brunch. Known for its extensive beer selection and inventive cuisine, Hawthornes combines Irish-inspired dishes with creative twists for a memorable dining experience.
This beloved Irish pub in Center City offers a laid-back vibe, friendly service, and a great selection of beers on tap. Join the locals for St. Patrick’s Day festivities and enjoy live music late into the night.
Located in Midtown Village, Finn McCool’s Ale House is a popular spot for St. Patrick’s Day revelry. Enjoy Irish-inspired cocktails, comfort food favorites, and a festive atmosphere.
Located in the heart of South Street, O’Neals Pub is a favorite among locals for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff. Join the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations for drink specials, Irish-themed bar bites, and a lively crowd.The Irish Pub: As its name suggests, The Irish Pub is a go-to destination for authentic Irish hospitality in Philadelphia. With multiple locations across the city, you can enjoy St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with a pint of Guinness and classic pub grub no matter where you are.
