St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most spectacular parties in the city. As the city transforms into an Irish Green, you’ll know the celebration is about to start. Playing a big part of Irish culture in New York City, the celebration starts with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which has been taking place in NYC for over 250 years.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade attracts up to 250,000 people each year and is highly appreciated by both locals and visitors from all over the world. All you need to do is show up, have good vibes and if you can wear green to share some love for the Irish culture.
The tradition of the St Patrick’s Day Parade in NYC goes back to 1762 and was always held around March 17. The St Patrick’s Day Parade starts at New York Public Library near Bryant Park from where it will walk towards St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 51st Street.
This year the parade starts at 11 AM and finishes around 5 PM on March 16th. More likely than not, you will end up in one of the many Irish pubs in the city right after the parade. We’ve rounded up five Irish themed activities to extend your St. Patrick’s Day fun!
Sample Fine Whiskey
Flat Iron Room is offering a luxury whiskey tasting event on the Saturday of St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Sip on one of six selections from the bar’s impressive collection, as you learn the subtle nuances of fine whiskeys. After the class, take in the bar’s elegant art decor and enjoy the live music. Tickets are required and are available for purchase on their website. Reservations for the seated bar are recommended.
- 37 W 26th Street, 212-725-3860
Indulge in Irish Cuisine
The Irish natives who run Lillie’s Victorian Establishment have brought their cuisine to the Big Apple. On St. Patrick’s Day, Lillie’s Times Square will serve Irish soda bread, corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes in the midst of its signature Victorian decor. There will also be a special: $15 for a pint of Guinness and a shot of Jameson whiskey.
- 249 W 49th St, 212- 957-4530
Listen to Traditional Irish Tunes
As part of the 11th St Bar’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations a Traditional Irish Seisiún, or session, is planned on Sunday night. Gather inside the cozy Irish bar located in the East Village for good drinks and great Celtic songs. The music starts at 10 pm and plays until around 2 am.
- 510 East 11th Street, 212-982-3929
Celtic Entertainment
March 17, dance to fiddle-filled hit “Come On Eileen” at the St. Patrick’s Day Tribute to Dexys Midnight Runners. Playing Dexys’ hits and deep cuts, the super group on the bill is headed by Ted Leo with members from The Pharmacists, Gramercy Arms, Elk City, and Nova Social. The concert fetes the holiday with some punk spirit at The Bell House in Gowanus, Brooklyn.
- 149 7th Street Brooklyn, 718-643-6510
Learn About Irish-American History
For a dose of culture, sign up for the one-hour “Irish Outsiders” tour at the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side ($25 for adults; $20 for students and seniors). There, you will earn about an Irish immigrant family “struggling with prejudice while celebrating their Irish identity in 1869 New York. You’ll join them as they decorate their home, celebrate mass, and march in the City’s renowned St. Patrick’s Day parade–all while carving out a new identity for themselves as Irish Americans.”
- 103 Orchard Street, 877-975-3786
Need a place to crash post-celebration? Be sure to make your reservation at The Time New York and book the St. Patty’s Luck package. The package includes two cocktail vouchers, a pair of Time Hotel coasters, a personalized St. Patrick’s Day itinerary and 1pm late check-out (*subject to availability).
For more information please visit our Concierge Desk at The Time New York or contact us at concierge@thetimehotels.com for assistance.
Author: Claudia Dinu – Chef Concierge
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