When you think about winter in New Orleans, you probably imagine Mardi Gras and its grand parades and celebrations. Did you know that another fun event happens right after that? St. Paddy’s Day in New Orleans is a fun way to ease into spring and celebrate once more before Lent comes around. Read on to learn what parades to see, which pubs to visit, and where to catch great live shows. 

Here’s What You Need to Know Before Attending St. Paddy’s Day in New Orleans

Are There Any Parades to See?

St. Paddy’s Day, also known as St. Patrick’s Day, is celebrated on March 17th every year. For the occasion (and because it’s New Orleans) you can attend several marvelous parades. Take a look at some of the most popular below and choose your favorites:

• French Quarter Irish Parade: The weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day is when there will be a walking parade through the French Quarter.  Though New Orleans is a francophone city, blarney and clover green will be the order of the day along the parade route that will wind its way through the French Quarter.  If you’re in the Quarter, you”ll see it and get swept up in the blarney of New Orleans’ Emerald Isle heritage.
• Irish Channel Parade: Did you know that New Orleans was a hub for Irish immigrants back in the 19th century? It’s where the Irish Channel area got its name. Watch the neighborhood, and all of New Orleans, come together to celebrate this wonderful city’s gumbo of a culture.  During the party, visit Parasol’s, this parade’s traditional starting point, and Tracy’s, a bar on Magazine Street famous for its Irish Sundae: potato salad topped with roast beef debris. The marchers will be throwing carrots and cabbages into the crowd.  Will you catch one?
• Downtown Irish Club Parade: Join the fun at the corner of Burgundy and Piety Streets to start up the Downtown Irish Club Parade, through the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter neighborhoods.

Around St. Patrick’s Day, there is always a reason to celebrate.  This is New Orleans, after all.  You’ll find some luck of the Irish wherever you go.

What About Live Music on St. Paddy’s Day?

In addition to the parades, St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans is known for its extravagant and lavish block parties. Imagine traditional and upbeat Irish music pumping, delicious food sizzling, and local libations flowing. Block parties usually start at 10 a.m., so if you have a certain bar or borough in mind, make sure you get there early.

Where Are the Good Pubs?

What would St. Paddy’s Day be without visiting an Irish pub? Lucky for you, we have a few right here in New Orleans. Finn McCool’s might be the most popular. This traditional neighborhood pub is named after the mythical giant that created the Giant’s Causeway. The pub regularly hosts live entertainment, soccer games, and, of course, Irish dancing. Mick’s is one of our favorites, and close to La Belle Esplanade. This Irish dive bar is a fun spot for locals and has wonderful drinks. They even serve them in plastic cups so you can take them around as you explore St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.