As St. Patrick's Day approaches, Metro Detroit is buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming festivities. The holiday, which is traditionally celebrated with parades, green beer, and other Irish-inspired events, has something for everyone. From lively parades and pub crawls to scavenger hunts and more, Metro Detroit has a wide range of events and activities taking place for a memorable St. Patrick's Day!
A BRIEF HISTORY
St. Patrick's Day, also known as the Feast of St. Patrick, is a holiday celebrated on March 17th each year to honor the patron saint of Ireland. The day commemorates St. Patrick's efforts to spread Christianity throughout Ireland during the 5th century. St. Patrick, who was originally from Britain, was captured by Irish raiders and taken to Ireland as a slave. After escaping and returning to his home country, St. Patrick received a vision urging him to return to Ireland as a missionary. He spent the rest of his life traveling throughout the country, spreading Christianity and establishing monasteries and churches. Over time, St. Patrick became a symbol of Irish culture and heritage, and the holiday evolved into a celebration of Irish pride and identity. Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world, with parades, music, food, and other festivities.
CORKTOWN 5K
For those looking to kickstart their St. Patrick's Day festivities with a healthy activity, the Corktown 5k offers an excellent opportunity. The Corktown 5k, which is among the largest 5k's in Michigan, takes place on the Sunday before St. Patrick's Day, and supports the St. Patrick Senior Center. Over 8,000 runners have participated in previous years, so registering early is highly recommended. The event also features a mile-long run, a kids' race, and other festivities alongside the St. Patrick's Day parade.
DETROIT ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
The 65th annual Corktown St. Patrick's Day Parade is set to return to Detroit's Michigan Avenue, bringing with it a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike. The parade, which celebrates Irish pride, will take place on March 12th at 1 pm and will begin near Sixth Street and Michigan Avenue. The event will feature a diverse range of participants, including marching and pipe and drum bands, color guard units, floats, clowns, novelty groups, and marching units, lasting approximately two hours.
As one of the largest St. Patrick's Day parades in the country, the event attracts an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people annually. Additionally, the parade will offer a Family Fun Zone, which is a reserved, family-friendly area located at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Sixth Street. The Family Fun Zone, open from 12:30-3:30 pm, includes live Irish entertainment, inflatable amusements, food service, and private restrooms. Tickets for the Family Fun Zone are $12 per person, or $60 for a family package of six tickets.
LEPRECHAUN DAYS AT CANTERBURY VILLAGE
Canterbury Village, located in Lake Orion, MI, is set to host its annual St. Patrick's Day celebration, Leprechaun Days, on March 11th and 12th from 11 am to 5 pm. Families are encouraged to participate in a scavenger hunt for scattered coins hidden throughout the grounds, exploring the village to collect one of each of the six colors of coins that can be redeemed for prizes at participating shops. Along with the coin hunt, the event also features a petting zoo, a kid-friendly DJ, fire pits (with s'mores kits available for purchase), and shopping opportunities. Attendees can also enjoy FREE photo opportunities with the Leprechauns in the Leprechaun Barn. This festive event is sure to be a hit with families and visitors, and tickets should be secured in advance to avoid missing out on the fun.
OFFICIAL ST. PATRICK’S BAR CRAWL DETROIT
For those looking to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style, the Original St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl in Detroit, MI, offers an unforgettable night of green beers, live music, and good vibes. The event promises exclusive deals and discounts at participating venues, making it the perfect way to enjoy the holiday. Ticket holders will receive a Bar Crawl LIVE wristband, free entry to the best bars, waived door cover charges, up to 50% off on Irish-themed drinks, up to 20% off on select food items, and other exciting perks. Participating bars include Level Two Bar & Rooftop, Exodos Rooftop, Delux Nightclub, Mix Bricktown (M!X), and DELMAR Detroit.
The event will feature a welcome party, halftime party, and after party, as well as a costume contest, DJs at select bars, a digital bar list, and on-site staff guiding the crawl. The event will take place on March 17th and 18th, 2023, at Greektown Bars in Detroit, MI. Tickets for this event should be secured in advance to avoid missing out on the festivities.
CLASSIC DETROIT BARS FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY
For those seeking the ultimate St. Patrick's Day experience, there are several must-visit hangouts in Detroit, each offering a unique atmosphere and Irish-inspired festivities.
The first stop is the Old Shillelagh Irish Pub, located on Monroe Street. This pub is renowned as "the place to be every St. Patrick's Day, as well as the rest of the year." With its authentic Irish decor, lively atmosphere, and extensive selection of Irish beers and spirits, visitors are sure to have a memorable time.
Next on the list is McShane's Irish Pub & Whiskey Bar on Michigan Avenue. This establishment promises that "you'll ALWAYS have fun," and with live music, karaoke, and a broad selection of Irish whiskeys and craft beers, it's easy to see why.
Last but not least is Nancy Whiskey, opened in 1902 and known as "Detroit's Oldest Party" and located on Harrison. This pub offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those looking to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in a more relaxed setting. With live music, a diverse selection of beers and spirits, and friendly staff, Nancy Whiskey is a must-visit destination for any Irish pub enthusiast in Detroit.
ADDITIONAL IRISH PUBS OF METRO DETROIT
For those seeking a more relaxed St. Patrick's Day celebration outside the city, Metro Detroit offers a variety of excellent Irish pubs to enjoy the festivities. Here are some top picks:
Dick O'Dow's Irish Pub in Birmingham, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, live music, and a menu featuring traditional Irish fare with a modern twist.
O'Connor's Public House in Rochester offers an upscale Irish pub experience with an extensive menu featuring classic pub fare and a variety of craft beers.
O'Malley's Pub in Auburn Hills offers a welcoming atmosphere, live music, and a vast selection of beers and whiskeys.
O'Tooles in Royal Oak offers an excellent selection of Irish whiskeys and beers, along with a menu featuring Irish-inspired dishes and traditional pub fare.
Sean O'Callaghan's Public House in Plymouth offers a cozy atmosphere, live music, and a vast selection of Irish whiskeys and beers.
Blarney Stone Pub in Berkley is a classic Irish pub, featuring a cozy atmosphere, live music, and a menu featuring traditional Irish dishes.
Sullivan's Public House in Oxford offers a lively atmosphere, live music, and a wide selection of beers and whiskeys.
Last but not least, John Cowley and Sons in Downtown Farmington offers an excellent menu featuring traditional Irish dishes, a vast selection of beers and whiskeys, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day.
As Metro Detroiters prepare to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, it's important to remember to stay safe and enjoy the festivities responsibly. Whether you're attending a parade, visiting an Irish pub, or participating in other St. Patrick's Day events, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday and embrace the Irish spirit. So don your green attire, enjoy some traditional Irish food and drinks, and remember that on St. Patrick's Day, everyone is Irish. Wishing everyone a fun and safe holiday from all of us at The Perna Team.
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