If you’re wondering when is St Patrick’s Day 2026, here’s the answer: the holiday falls on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. This date stays the same every year and marks one of the most widely celebrated cultural observances in the United States and around the world, honoring Irish heritage, community parades, traditional foods, and vibrant festivities. In the U.S., cities from Chicago to New York host large-scale events that draw crowds in the thousands. The observance combines centuries-old tradition with modern celebration energy.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, looking forward to a parade, or just want to know the date for planning time off or festivities, this guide breaks down all the key details you need for St Patrick’s Day 2026.
Celebrate Like a Local — Mark Your Calendar
St Patrick’s Day lands on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, which gives many communities the opportunity to extend celebrations into the weekend prior or afterward with parades, festivals, pub crawls and more. In cities like Chicago, the Chicago River will be dyed green on Saturday, March 14, 2026, kicking off the big weekend of festivities.
Make sure your calendar reflects the right date so you don’t miss out on the fun!
Why March 17 Matters
The date of St Patrick’s Day is rooted in history. Traditionally held on March 17, the observance commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. The holiday originally began as a 17th-century Christian feast day and has evolved into a broad celebration of Irish culture and heritage that’s especially embraced in the United States.
In many U.S. communities, parades are central to the festivities, with marching bands, dancers, floats and more. Cities like New York host one of the oldest and longest St Patrick’s Day parades in the country, drawing tens of thousands of spectators and participants each year.
Major U.S. Celebrations Around the Holiday
Chicago: Dyeing the River Green & Parades
Chicago’s annual St Patrick’s Day festivities are famous nationwide. Each year, the Chicago River is dyed a bright emerald green — a visual spectacle that takes place on the Saturday before March 17, which in 2026 falls on March 14. Boats spread eco-friendly dye, and thousands gather along the riverbanks to witness the transformation.
This event often kicks off a weekend of bar crawls, pub parties and Irish music events throughout the city. Chicago’s celebrations are among the most photographed and anticipated in the U.S. each year.
New York City: Parade Tradition
The St Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City is one of the most iconic in the United States. The procession marches up Fifth Avenue, with thousands of marchers and spectators celebrating Irish pride.
The parade is rich with tradition, featuring bagpipers, dancers, civic groups, and Irish cultural organizations. Many parade goers don green attire and accessories, honoring Irish symbols like shamrocks and Celtic knots.
San Diego: A Festival With Irish Flair
In San Diego, California, the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade & Irish Festival is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026. This event combines a daytime parade with a full festival featuring Irish food, music, dance and cultural vendors.
Parade routes and festival sites are typically family-friendly, offering attendees the chance to experience Irish artistry, dance performances, and local community traditions.
Highlands & Small-Town Celebrations
Smaller towns across the U.S. also host their own versions of St Patrick’s Day parades and festivities. For example, the Highlands Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade in New Jersey is set for March 21, 2026, giving communities additional weekend celebration options beyond the official March 17 date.
These parades often feature marching bands, festive floats, Irish dancers and local cultural groups, highlighting the widespread enthusiasm for the holiday from coast to coast.
Irish Food, Drinks & Seasonal Treats
Celebrating St Patrick’s Day often includes indulging in Irish-themed food and drinks. Across the U.S., pubs and restaurants serve traditional fare like Irish stew, corned beef and cabbage, soda bread and hearty lamb dishes.
Seasonal Menu Items Around the Holiday
Major food brands also participate in St Patrick’s Day fun. For 2026, popular seasonal offerings include McDonald’s returning its Shamrock Shake and Oreo Shamrock McFlurry in mid-February ahead of the holiday.
Dairy Queen is launching a festive Mint Crunchin’ Cookie Dipped Cone and bringing back the fan-favorite Mint Oreo Blizzard Treat in time for the holiday as well.
These seasonal items add sweet flair to the weeks leading up to March 17.
Traditions That Define the Day
Wear Green
One of the most recognizable traditions is wearing green clothing. This practice symbolizes Irish pride and stems from folklore involving Saint Patrick and shamrocks.
Parades and Gatherings
Communities across the U.S. hold parades that range from massive city processions to neighborhood walks, all featuring Irish music, dance and cultural expressions.
Cultural Events
Museums, cultural centers and Irish heritage groups host events that celebrate Irish arts, language and history, often throughout March.
Planning Ahead: What to Know for 2026
With St Patrick’s Day 2026 landing on a Tuesday, March 17, many communities extend celebrations into the weekend before or after to accommodate work schedules and maximize festivities. Whether you plan to attend a parade, dine out with friends, or enjoy seasonal treats, marking this date on your calendar ensures you’re part of this cherished celebration of Irish culture and community in the United States.
We’d love to hear how you celebrate — share your favorite St Patrick’s Day traditions or plans in the comments!