St. Patrick’s Day is a fun and festive holiday that takes place on March 17th every year. It celebrates the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, and the rich culture and heritage of the Irish people. On this day, people often wear green clothing, decorate their homes with shamrocks (a sign of luck), and attend parades and festivals. The color green is thought to represent the lush green landscapes of Ireland.
Whether you are Irish or Irish for the day, our area offers a treasure trove of ideas to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Here’s hoping the luck of the Irish stays with you all year!
By Kirstin Hawthorne
St. Patrick’s Day Ballyshaners Parade in Alexandria – March 4 | 12:30 PM | Old Town Alexandria
This much-anticipated parade features marching bands, Irish dance troupes, and floats. Everyone’s Irish when you sit along the parade route.
The Shamrock Crawl in Washington DC – March 11 | 2:00 – 10:00 PM | DuPont Circle
Take a tour of some of Washington DC’s best Irish pubs located in quaint DuPont Circle while celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Tickets required.
Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade – March 11 | 11:00 AM | Old Town Manassas
Come out decked in green and show your Irish pride. Listen to the bands, hear the tapping of the Irish dancers, and enjoy the traditional sounds of bagpipes.
Lucky Leprechaun 5K – March 12 | 8:00 AM | Reston Town Center
Feeling lucky? Race to the end of the rainbow (or the finish line) for a chance for gold. Pre-registered participants will receive a race shirt, medal, and certificate. For safety reasons, no strollers or dogs are permitted on the course.
A Wee List O’ Local Irish Pubs
- Auld Shebeen – Fairfax
- Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant and Bar – Alexandria
- Murphy’s Irish Pub – Alexandria
- Ned Devine’s Irish Gastro Pub & Restaurant – Herndon
- O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub – Arlington
- Old Brogue Irish Pub – Great Falls
