Each year on March 17, Americans across the country come together to celebrate another culture’s holiday: St. Patrick’s Day. This holiday, which is based on an Irish legend and the patron saint of Ireland, is all about celebrating the Irish spirit. And while it’s most vibrantly celebrated throughout Ireland, there are plenty of American cities that get in on the tradition.
In fact, many U.S. cities with large Irish populations have created new St. Patrick’s Day traditions of their very own. With more than 31 million people with Irish ancestry living in America, there are even more Irish-Americans than residents of Ireland! That alone is a reason to grab a pint and celebrate.
And if you’re looking for a celebration, you don’t have to look far. Plenty of U.S. cities throw huge parties on St. Patrick’s Day, with annual parades, charity runs, and pub crawls happening from coast to coast. From green rivers to green beer, you can find a lively St. Patty’s Day celebration just about anywhere.
But if you’re looking to celebrate somewhere steeped in tradition and Irish heritage, these are the best cities you can visit.