As a city with proud Irish heritage, St. Patrick’s Day has been a cornerstone of Boston’s calendar, with its annual Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade gracing the city’s streets since 1901. So if you find yourself in Boston, or in New England, on March 19, you’ll want to make sure you’re around for the big events.
First and foremost, it doesn’t need to be St. Patrick’s Day to explore Boston’s rich Irish heritage. The Irish Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour throughout downtown and the Back Bay that will take you to some of the most celebrated landmarks such as the Rose Kennedy Garden, Kevin White Statue and Massachusetts State House.
Next, make sure you stop by a classic Irish pub for a pint of Guinness, roast and potatoes. The Harp in North Station, Ned Devine’s Irish Pub in Quincy Market and MJ O’Connor’s Pub in Boston Park Plaza are three classic establishments, and on St. Patrick’s weekend all will be hosting live music and traditional Irish step dancing.
Music is an integral part of Irish culture — and Boston’s. No better proof can be seen in the success of the Dropkick Murphys, and their annual trip home to Boston to perform on St. Patrick’s day at the MGM Music Hall and House of Blues. This year, they’ll be performing from March 16-19, so if you haven’t yet bought tickets, there’s still a chance!
Finally, for the athletic minded, Southie hosts an annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Road Race on West 6th Street. The first 600 runners to register will receive a limited edition t-shirt designed by the Dropkick Murphys, who are sponsoring the race.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, make sure you dress in green and book your transportation with GO Boston.