Who
Everyone, including your four-legged friends (Yes, dogs are allowed).
What
The 52nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, sponsored by the Saint Patrick’s Association.
When
Noon, St. Patrick’s Day (Saturday, March 17).
Where
The route begins at Wacouta and 5th St. E and moves westbound along 5th St., to Washington St., to 4th Street, dispersing for the finale between St. Peter and Wabasha streets. Spectators can space themselves anywhere along the route. Chairs and blankets are welcomed to reserve your spots. It can get chilly downtown in the shadows of the buildings, so dress accordingly or search for a warmer spot in the sun.
Rice Park is the finish line and epicenter of the parade. It will be crowded in the park, but there will be snack vendors and other peddlers.
Pro Tip: If you want to collect the most amount of candy and other giveaways, set up early in the parade route near Lowertown. Participants usually get so excited tossing things to the jubilant crowd they find themselves with little left for the last few blocks.
Why
Because we love celebrating our city’s Irish roots. The Saint Patrick’s Association has been sponsoring the parade since 1967. The association is a nonprofit comprised of volunteers who support the celebration of Irish heritage and encourage families to embrace the long-standing tradition. Learn more about Saint Paul’s Irish history in our Insider's Blog.
How
Street and ramp parking is available throughout downtown. To avoid any parking hiccups, we recommend taking Lyft, Uber or Metro Transit.
Last year's forecast clocked in at mid-40s. For those who run a bit cold, that meant blankets, wool socks and hand warmers. For the tough eager-for-Spring Minnesotans, shorts and a tee. If you ran somewhere in the middle, we recommended a coat, gloves and hat in case it drops to the 30s — all in green, of course. We'll mak updates as soon as we get a better grasp on what Mother Nature will be dealing out this year!
Anything else?
Before the parade, we recommend grabbing a pint at Barrio, Bulldog, PUBLIC Kitchen + Bar, Hat Trick Lounge, St. Paul Grill, Pazzaluna, American Burger Bar, or Great Waters. After the parade, check out the other festivities Saint Paul has to offer for St. Patrick’s Day. West Seventh Street is sure to be hopping as always.
We'd love to see your St. Patty's Day photos! Share them with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #MYSAINTPAUL.
