Calendar of St. Patrick's Day Events in Boston

The March event calendar in Boston is heavy with dates celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. With a large population laying claims to Irish roots, it’s no wonder. Things kick off in early March with popular, seasonal Harpoon Festival, and from the South Boston parade to pub challenges and Irish music, there’s plenty of Erin Go Bragh activities on tap. Here’s a guide to help you plan your celebration. Keep in mind that St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, which means collegiates and professionals alike will be crowding the Boston pub scene. If you’re not exactly in the mood for green beer, here’s a list of some of Boston’s best beer bars where you can raise a (good) pint in celebrating the Irish heritage.

Harpoon St. Patrick’s Day Festival
March 2 (5:30-11 p.m.)-March 3 (2-9 p.m.) 2012, $20

The liveliest of Harpoon's quarterly festivals, this affair features live music from local Irish bands and various food vendors. Admission includes a souvenir cup and one drink ticket. To find out when you can visit Harpoon on off-festival hours to sample their selections, as well as other Boston breweries, check out our Guide to Brewery Tours and Tastings.

The Stone Zoo Celebrates Irish Heritage
Every Saturday in March

The Stone Zoo, in Stoneham, hosts weekly events geared to educating and celebrating Irish culture including Gaelic football, step-dancing, and scavenger hunts.

Boston Irish Pub Challenge
March 12, 2012, Noon-2 a.m., $25

Join one of nearly two dozen “pub teams” in this fourth annual pub crawl, this year with new pubs and the ability to create your own team. One lucky winner from each team will win a free flight to Ireland.

Dropkick Murphys
March 14-16, 2012, $32.50

The hometown Irish rockers celebrate the season with a trio of shows at The House of Blues in the Fenway. This annual event is always popular and is sure to sell out. Getting tickets ahead of time is highly encouraged.

South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 18, 2012, 1 p.m.

One of the most renowned St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country, this South Boston tradition attracts more than a half-million people every year. It begins at the Broadway ‘T’ station and ends at Andrew Square. For a list of other St. Patrick’s Day parades in the region, click here.

Irish Heritage Trail

Celebrate Boston’s Irish heritage with a walk along the Irish Heritage Trail, 20 stops that celebrate the impact Irish citizens have had on the city. Stops include the Rose Kennedy Garden, Fenway Park, and the Boston Irish Famine Memorial.

Irish Film Showcase
March 22-25, 2012

The Irish Film Festival’s 13th annual screening of the best contemporary Irish films. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend over the four-day festival, held at the Somerville Theater and the Brattle Theater in Harvard Square.