15 things to do in Boston to celebrate St Patrick's Day and all things Irish in 2022

Obviously, the number one way to celebrate St Patrick's Day in Boston is to watch the parade in South Boston. But do take note that the parade will actually occur on March 20th, rather than the 17th—it is always held on the Sunday of St. Patrick’s Day weekend.  The parade starts at the Broadway 'T' stop and ends at Farragut Road. The best place to watch the parade is anywhere along Broadway Street—you’ll want to get there early though; the route is usually packed.

If you want to be a little more active than just watching other people walk down the street, sign up for the St Patrick's Day Road Race in Southie. This also takes place on March 20th, just before the parade. The 5K road race supports the Edgerley Family South Boston Boys & Girls Club’s youth development and teen programs and entry tickets are $30/person.

We have the Dropkick Murphys to thank for more than a few of the unofficial Boston theme songs and so their annual “St. Patrick’s Day Tour” is another fun way to experience Boston Irish culture this time of year. They will be playing at the House of Blues on March 17th, 18th, and 19th and then at the new “Roadrunner” venue on March 20th.

At least one pint of Guinness should be involved in any St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Stop by the Black Rose to raise a pint with the pals after work. Located near Faneuil Hall, this is a classic Boston Irish pub. With live music every night, Irish food, and plenty of perfect pours of Guinness, the Black Rose is the place to celebrate being together with our loved ones this St. Patrick’s Day.

Whether you want to learn why Boston has such a connection to Irish culture, or perhaps want to dive into your own heritage a little more this St. Patrick’s Day, the Irish Heritage Trail is a great place to start. Including 20 landmarks, the Irish Heritage Trail leads you through the footsteps of the Irish immigrants and their descendants who have made great contributions to the city of Boston. 

And if you want to be able to take your time when exploring the Irish Heritage Trail and perhaps checking out a few of the Irish pubs along the way, you may want to book a little staycation in Downtown Boston. Hotels like the Godfrey, Langham Boston and the Whitney will put you just steps from all the historical landmarks worth visiting.

If you have tickets to see the Dropkick Murphys at the House of Blues, you should also put Lansdowne on your list. Located right next door, this is just the place to stop by either pre or post the concert for some Irish food, Irish music, and of course Guinness!

While you may not think of basketball as particularly Irish, the name “Celtics” is, our team color is green and the mascot is a leprechaun! So, grab your green gear and suit up for a night at the TD Garden the week of St. Patrick’s Day. There are games at TD Garden on March 11th, 13th, and 23rd. And if this is your first-time visiting Boston, checking out a local sports game is one of the most “Boston” things you can do by the way—so experience our culture firsthand at the Celtics!

Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations early at the Harpoon Brewery St Patrick's Day Festival on March 4th and 5th. Festivals at the Harpoon Brewery are always a blast and what a better way to shake off the winter blues than with a few pints outside with all your best friends? There will be live music, food, drinks, and more.

Head to the Somerville Theater for the “St. Paddy’s Comedy and Dance Spectacular”, hosted by Jack Lynch. There will be comedians, Irish dancers, and bagpipe performances. The event takes place on March 18th at 8pm.

Continuing along the theme of Irish music and culture, get in the mood for St. Patrick’s Day by listening to some Irish Music on WGBH radio. Each week on from 3-6pm on Saturdays on channel 89.7, host Brian O'Donovan shares traditional and contemporary music from Ireland. Hear from both emerging artists and old favorites.

The JFK Library is known for its quality cultural programming and of course, it has something fun planned for St. Patrick’s Day this year. “The Irish Balladeer” event will feature traditional stories and dances, accompanied by Irish instruments in this virtual event.

Stop by Dooley’s for a Guinness Beef Stew to pair with your pint this St. Patrick’s Day. This Irish pub is known for its delicious Irish food and if the weather is agreeable, you can even dine outside to soak up (what we hope will be!) and early Spring in Boston!

We all know how fickle the weather can be in Boston, but if we are lucky enough to get a sunny day this St. Patrick’s, be sure to take a stroll on the Rose Kennedy Greenway. The Greenway is named after JFK’s mother, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, who was born in the North End and was a fixture in Boston society most of her life.

Last but not least, treat yourself to at least one more pint of Guinness. We have all been through quite a lot over the past two years and it’s time to celebrate being back together again. Boston is filled with amazing places to enjoy a pint, so grab your friends and order another.