Atlanta Has a Surprisingly Wild St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
From over-the-top parades to Irish bar crawls, St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta is an all-out party.
While St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide, the experience is truly special in the city of Atlanta. People from all over travel to the 404 to partake in the festivities—so grab your green drinks and get ready for a great time.
As usual, the St. Patrick’s Day 5K kicks off in Midtown, followed by the annual parade that will feature floats, bands, drill teams, and more. Pubs and other bars like Fadò, Park Tavern, and Moe’s & Joe’s are set to host day parties, making Saturday primed to be an event-filled day of fun. And if you’re willing to stray from Atlanta proper, we’re within driving distance of one of the biggest celebrations in the country. No matter how you want to honor the holiday, here are the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Atlanta this year.
St. Patrick’s Day Wellness Events in Atlanta
March 16, 8 am
Marietta, $60
Marietta Square is home to several restaurants, boutiques, bars, and a wealth of history, but it also hosts the annual beloved Shamrock Shuffle. Celebrating its 8th year, this St. Patrick’s Day-themed race will include costume contests and awards for the day’s top qualifiers. In what is a new edition to the event, the second mile of the run will be designated as the “Memorial Mile of Celebration,” which is dedicated to the life and legacy of lost loved ones.
St. Patrick’s Day Parties in Atlanta
March 9, 6 pm
Dunwoody, $120
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in your fanciest threads at the Hibernian Benevolent Society of Atlanta's exclusive Black Tie Ball. This night of elegance, entertainment, and Irish charm has been a hit for years, so this time around things won't be any different. The ball kicks off with a seated dinner followed by a live band. Guests can also look forward to performances from Atlanta Irish Dance by Burke Connolly and the Phoenix School of Irish Arts.
March 16, 1 pm
Colony Square, Prices vary
For the perfect kickoff to the weekend, Colony Square will be transformed for St. Patrick’s Day with an afternoon block party around the trendy Politan Row food hall and surrounding businesses. More than 25 participating bars will offer themed Irish beverages and shots, food and drink specials, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the $4 Tequeños and Empanadas and 10% off everything at Pour Taproom.
March 16, 2 pm
Park Tavern, $15 and up
One of the most sought-after events in Atlanta is back for another year. Park Tavern’s Shamrock Fest will feature live music curated by a local DJ, a fun atmosphere, and food and drink specials perfect for St. Patrick’s Day. So pull up to Piedmont Park’s favorite watering hole for a Saturday celebration like none other.
March 17, 11 am
Virginia Highland, $15 and up
End St. Patrick’s Day weekend at the annual Kegs and Eggs Block Party at seven of VaHi’s most beloved bars, including Neighbor’s Pub, Dark Horse Tavern, and Moe’s & Joe’s. Tickets include Irish-inspired dishes like corned beef sliders and drink specials on pints, shots, and cocktails to keep you in the festive spirit all day long.
March 16–17, 1 pm
Buckhead, $10 and up
For two days, the city’s favorite pub will shut down Buckhead Avenue to provide visitors with live entertainment and a great time. Fadó’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival opens its doors early for Kegs & Eggs, followed by the Block Party at 1 pm. Here, you can enjoy live music, Irish dancers, drink specials, and much more. If you’re around the area during the days leading up to the weekend, Fadó will host the Dirty South St. Patrick’s Trivia and the St. Baldrick’s Head Shaving Event fundraiser.
March 17, 2 pm
Downtown Atlanta, $60
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an eventful afternoon learning how to craft your favorite cocktail at this unique mixology class. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a complete beginner, this immersive class is tailor made for whomever wants to attend. Located in the heart of Atlanta’s downtown area, here you can enjoy some great music and tasty hors d'oeuvres, all while fellowshipping amidst good company in the spirit of the Irish holiday.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades in Atlanta
March 16, 11 am
Midtown, Free
Founded in 1858, the Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a staple of the spring season and one of the city’s oldest events. Running from Arts Center to Cypress Street through Midtown, along the way you’ll see floats, dancers, and drum and bagpipe corps, all led by the grand marshals, who are usually Irish dignitaries or local figures.
March 16, 10:15 am
Savannah, Free
This year, the city of Savannah will celebrate the 200th anniversary of its St. Patrick’s Day Parade, so you know the stage is set for an unforgettable event. The greening of the fountain is always a cool sight to see, and the city is sure to be even wilder than usual for this banner event just a four-hour drive from Atlanta.