Top US Cities Lighting Up St. Patrick's Day Festivities
When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick's Day, five U.S. cities steal the show, offering vibrant parades and cultural festivities that draw crowds from near and far. Each city has its own unique spin on honoring Irish heritage, blending history with modern-day excitement.
New York City: The Grand Spectacle
Arguably the most prominent of all, New York City's St. Patrick's Day parade has been a fixture since 1762. An eye-popping two million attendees flock to the city each year to witness the grand event. The parade boasts 100,000 participants, including enthusiastic Irish dancers and bagpipe players. Notably, the parade prides itself on tradition, so don't expect to see any floats or cars—it's all about the marching bands and walking brigades.
Chicago: A Green River and Spirited Celebration
Chicago pulls out all the stops for its St. Patrick's Day, drawing between 800,000 to a million spectators. The city's signature move? Dyeing the Chicago River a striking emerald green, a practice initiated by local plumbers over five decades ago using eco-friendly vegetable dye. The phenomenon attracts locals and tourists alike, eager to glimpse the river's temporary transformation.
Beyond its green river, the Windy City's parade is bustling with floats, music, and lively step dancers showcasing the best of Irish culture.
Boston: A Historic and Political Affair
Boston's celebration is steeped in history, with a parade tradition tracing back to 1724. With crowds ranging from 600,000 to 800,000, the city embraces its Irish roots with zeal. A mix of bar crawls, political roasts at local gatherings, and colorful parades through the South End district epitomize Boston's take on the festivities.
Philadelphia and Savannah: Heritage and Charm
In Philadelphia, the parade captivates 500,000 attendees, gaining fame as the second-oldest St. Patrick's Day parade in the States, dating back to 1771. The upcoming theme highlights Ireland's rich heritage with beautifully adorned floats and high-energy performances that captivate the audience.
Though Savannah might be smaller in size, its St. Patrick's Day celebration packs a punch with its grandeur. An extended three-day festival sees the city's fountains dyed green, complemented by spirited parades. The city's iconic Celtic Cross Ceremony stands as a testament to Savannah's deep-rooted Irish community spirit.
These five cities exemplify how cultural traditions can morph into vibrant local celebrations, each with its distinct flair. From New York's no-float parade policy to Chicago's green river, there's a world of excitement awaiting revelers each March.