St. Patrick’s in New York City!

In just a few days, revelers dressed in green will descend on the streets of New York City to celebrate what is perhaps one of the rowdiest days on the NYC parade roster: Saint Patrick’s Day! Did you know that the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade has happened every year for the past 253 years? That’s 14 years before the Declaration of Independence was signed! It is billed as the largest parade in the world with over a quarter of a million marchers and some 2 million spectators!

Pro Tip: If you want to get close to the parade, go extra early as many streets are closed to pedestrian traffic and access to 5th avenue where the parade takes place can be very limited. The parade begins at 11AM on 44th street and finishes around 5PM on 79th street http://www.nycstpatricksparade.org/about.html. Expect entertaining bagpipe performances and appearances from politicians and international dignitaries.

Of course the festivities continue well after the parade wraps up! New Yorkers understand that this day is entirely dedicated to boisterous celebrations mostly at Irish bars throughout the 5 boroughs. One of my favorite spots to celebrate is Molly’s Pub, which is Irish owned and operated and serves some of the best cheeseburgers around. Located on 3rd avenue between 22nd and 23rd street in the Gramercy Park neighborhood, this rustic spot has saw dust on the floor, friendly bartenders and a beautiful roaring fireplace (http://www.mollysshebeen.com). But have no fear, there’s no shortage of Irish Bars here in New York City. I also recommend the Mean Fiddler in Times Square on 47th street between 7th and 8th avenue (http://www.themeanfiddlernyc.com) and McSorely’s Old Ale house on 7th street in the East Village.

It’s not just about drinking Guinness Beer and Jameson’s Irish Whiskey on March 17th! Treat yourself to some tender Corned Beef and Cabbage as many restaurants offer this traditional Irish meal on St. Patrick’s Day. Or perhaps you’d like to attend a mass service of some kind? The iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral (located on the parade route) offers six mass services on St. Patrick ’s Day alone. Or for a family friendly option, The Irish Arts Center (http://www.irishartscenter.org) on West 51st street and 11th avenue offers an annual open house starting at noon with live music. However you decide to celebrate, New York City is certainly a fantastic place to be on St. Patrick’s Day!