You have to hand it to the Irish — they know how to have a good time. St. Patrick's Day is one of the most beloved drinking holidays of all time, and cities around the world join in on the fun. If you love shamrocks and leprechauns and dyeing your food green, then you have to celebrate this magical holiday in style.
If you can't pop across the pond for a big Irish getaway, here are five other fantastic places to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.
Chicago, USA
The luck of the Irish is strong in the Windy City. Chicago embraces this holiday whole-heartedly, celebrating with one of the most famous St. Patrick's Day traditions in the United States — dyeing the Chicago River a bright green. The tradition is decades old and is carried out every year by the Chicago Plumbers Union Local 130, who use a secret (but harmless) dye to color the river. The big day then kicks off with a massive parade that draws crowds in the thousands, and the party lasts well into the night.
Montreal, Canada
With their own massive parade and an impressive stock of Irish pubs, this Canadian city pulls out all the stops for St. Paddy's. The 196-year-old parade draws plenty of Montrealers out of their apartments and into the chilly spring air for a day of festivities. Over the past century, nothing has stopped the revelers from marching, not snowstorms nor economic troubles. Whether you start the day with an Irish breakfast or end the night with Irish beer (or both) just remember to wear green.
New York City, USA
The Big Apple is home to one of the oldest St. Patrick's Day parades in the world — more specifically, the longest-running, uninterrupted parade in North America. It began in 1762, when Irish soldiers serving in the British Army marched through Manhattan to celebrate their heritage. Today, the city puts on a roaring party, complete with scores of Irish dancers, live Irish music, and Irish food as far as the eye can see.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney celebrates St. Patrick's Day in style, with the iconic opera house lit up green for just the occasion. The Entertainment Quarter becomes the Green Quarter for all those wishing to have some fun. More family-oriented than other festivities, Sydney's celebrations focus on events celebrating the city's Irish heritage, like music and dancing and Paddy's markets selling plenty of Irish food. But if you want fill a pint with Irish beer, never fear — there are still plenty of spots that will help you pour one out for the Irish.
London, England
If you're not brave enough to tackle the crowds in Dublin, then make a quick hop to London to celebrate the holiday close to its roots. Station yourself in Trafalgar Square to participate in the parade or wander the surrounding streets for food from the Irish Street Food Market, music and accompanying Irish dancers, and plenty of Guinness.
