St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Around the World

Dublin, Ireland

First, we have to talk about Dublin. The capital of Ireland, this gorgeous Irish town sees tourists every year who come to party. Celebrations for March 17 actually begin ahead of time, so book accommodations early. The days leading up to St. Patrick's Day are filled with parties, and Temple Bar, the popular tourist destination, is packed with locals and visitors. Then, on St. Patrick's Day, there are parades and more. By night, of course, there is celebration. It should be noted that in Ireland, the Irish don't dress up quite like others around the world to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. For most, it's normal attire.

Argentina

The Irish in Ireland aren't the only ones who celebrate St. Patrick's Day. For a unique experience, head south to Argentina on March 17. In the early 1800s, the British invaded the country. Today, a lasting effect is the large Irish community there; it's the fifth largest outside of Ireland. In Buenos Aires, 10 blocks of Reconquista turn into a massive street party (as so often happens here), filled with dancing and heaps of people decked out in the signature green.

Sydney, Australia

There are also great celebrations Down Under. Sydney residents celebrate St. Patrick's Day and Family Day at the same time. Is it more family-friendly than the other parades around the world? That's up to you to decide.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another city to visit on the 17th. Each year, the windy city hosts one of the largest celebrations in the nation. They take it as far as dyeing the Chicago River a brilliant shade of green (and it stays green for a few days after the event). Its parade, which takes place at noon on St. Patrick's Day, is one of the largest in the country. For those interested, stake out a place near the start of the route, at Columbus Drive and Balbo Drive.

Boston, Massachusetts

Not to be outdone by the city to the west, Boston is likely the best place in the country to go if you're looking to be surrounded by those who identify as Irish. In fact, Massachusetts has the largest number of people of Irish descent in the country. Here, you can also learn about the history of Boston (which boasts the world's first recorded parade for St. Pat's Day). Be sure not to party too hard, because there's also the South Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade—the country's second largest parade.

New York, New York

Finally, there is New York City. Parading since 1762, the NYC St. Patrick's Day event has dubbed itself "the oldest, biggest, and best in the world." It starts at 11 a.m. on Fifth Avenue and continues past St. Patrick's Cathedral at 50th Street, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Irish Historical Society, all the way to 86th Street around 5 p.m. Then, of course, for those old enough, it's on to the pubs for some Irish drinking.

More From Smartertravel:

• Best Places to Go in Ireland
• 10 Best Hidden Places in Ireland
• Ireland's Best (and Best Kept Secrets)