Best St. Patrick’s Day Events in Seattle: The Evergreen Local Guide

St. Patrick’s Day is one of those holidays that Seattle does especially well. Even with our classic March weather, the city shows up every year with parades, cultural festivals, fun runs, and packed Irish pubs across downtown and neighborhood hubs.

Whether you’re a longtime local, new to the area, or visiting Seattle in March, St. Patrick’s Day offers something for everyone. From family-friendly daytime events to lively nightlife and Irish heritage celebrations, many of Seattle’s St. Patrick’s Day traditions happen year after year and are easy to plan around.

This guide focuses on evergreen St. Patrick’s Day events in Seattle. These are the annual celebrations you can count on each March, even though the exact dates may shift slightly from year to year. I’ll walk you through the biggest can’t-miss events, cultural highlights, and practical tips so you can decide how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle in a way that fits your lifestyle.

If you’re looking for the parade, the Irish Festival, the St. Patrick’s Day Dash, or the best places to join the festivities, you’re in the right place.

The Big 3 Annual St. Patrick’s Day Events in Seattle

Seattle has no shortage of ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but a few events rise above the rest every single year. These are the traditions that define St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle and draw locals, families, and visitors back each March.

The three events below are considered the core of Seattle’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. They are well-established, consistently held, and easy to plan around even as exact dates change from year to year. If you only attend one or two St. Patrick’s Day events in Seattle, start here.

Together, these celebrations offer a mix of community, culture, and fun. From a classic downtown parade to an Irish cultural festival and a festive fun run, the Big 3 showcase how Seattle celebrates St. Patrick’s Day at its best.

Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Downtown)

The Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the cornerstone of the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Held every March on the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day, this long-running tradition brings together Irish dancers, pipe bands, community groups, and local organizations for a lively, family-friendly celebration of Irish heritage in the heart of the city.

For many locals and visitors alike, the parade is the official kickoff to St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle and a reliable annual event people plan around year after year.

Where: 4th Avenue & Jefferson Street, Seattle

Irish Festival at Seattle Center (Festál)

The Irish Festival at Seattle Center is one of Seattle’s most established St. Patrick’s Day traditions and a centerpiece of the city’s cultural celebrations each March. Held annually as part of Seattle Center’s Festál series, this free festival highlights Irish heritage through music, dance, history, and family-friendly programming.

For many Seattle residents, the Irish Festival is the easiest and most approachable way to experience St. Patrick’s Day beyond the parade. It offers an indoor-friendly option during March weather and is especially popular with families, newcomers to Seattle, and anyone interested in Irish culture.

Where: Seattle Center Address, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle

St. Patrick’s Day Dash (Seattle Center)

The St. Patrick’s Day Dash is one of Seattle’s most spirited annual St. Patrick’s Day traditions and a great way to celebrate the holiday through movement and community. This festive 5K run/walk, along with a kids’ Leprechaun Lap, brings people of all ages together each March on the grounds of Seattle Center. It’s known not just for the race itself, but for the fun post-race atmosphere with music, costumes, and community energy.

Where: Seattle Center Address, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle

Irish Week in Seattle (Cultural Events Beyond the Big Day)

Irish Week expands St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle beyond a single parade or festival and turns it into a broader cultural celebration. Held annually in the days leading up to and surrounding St. Patrick’s Day, Irish Week features music, dance, storytelling, lectures, and community gatherings that highlight Irish history and heritage.

These events are hosted by local Irish organizations and partner venues across the city, offering a more immersive and educational way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle. Irish Week is especially popular with longtime locals, families, and anyone interested in Irish culture beyond the main holiday weekend.

Where: Various Locations

Classic Irish Pub Experience

If you prefer to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the traditional way, Seattle has several well-established Irish pubs that locals return to year after year. These spots typically host live music, serve classic Irish food and Guinness, and create a lively atmosphere throughout the St. Patrick’s Day weekend and on March 17 itself.

Because these pubs are popular every year, expect crowds, lines, and a high-energy vibe, especially in the afternoons and evenings.

Shawn O’Donnell’s American Grill & Irish Pub

Best for: Classic Irish pub experience, food, daytime celebrations
Location: Multiple locations, including downtown Seattle

Shawn O’Donnell’s is one of Seattle’s most recognizable Irish pubs and a reliable St. Patrick’s Day destination. It’s known for traditional Irish dishes, a wide beer selection, and a festive but approachable atmosphere that works well earlier in the day.

Murphy’s Pub

Best for: Neighborhood feel, live music, loyal local crowd
Location: Wallingford

Murphy’s Pub offers a more laid-back, neighborhood-focused St. Patrick’s Day celebration. It’s a favorite among locals who want Irish music, good conversation, and a slightly less chaotic alternative to downtown pubs.

Mulleady’s Irish Pub

Best for: Cozy neighborhood atmosphere, classic Irish fare, relaxed St. Patrick’s Day celebrations
Location: Magnolia, Seattle

Mulleady’s Irish Pub is a longtime neighborhood favorite known for its warm, traditional pub setting and hearty Irish-inspired menu. It’s a great option if you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without the downtown crowds, offering a comfortable, welcoming space for a leisurely meal or a pint with friends.

If You’re Bringing Kids: The Family-Friendly Game Plan

St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle is very approachable for families, especially earlier in the day. Many of the city’s annual traditions are designed to be welcoming for kids, multigenerational groups, and anyone looking for a festive experience without the nightlife crowds.

If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with children, timing and location matter more than anything. Focusing on daytime events and central venues makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

St. Patrick’s Day Storytimes & Crafts at the Seattle Public Library

Each March, many Seattle Public Library branches host St. Patrick’s Day–themed storytimes and simple craft activities for young children. These programs typically take place in the days leading up to March 17 and are designed for preschool and early elementary ages.

Where: Seattle Central Library, 1000 4th Ave, Seattle

Irish Music & Dance Performances (Family-Friendly Shows)

Irish music and dance performances are a consistent part of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Seattle. Local Irish dance schools and musicians perform each year as part of Irish Week and festival programming, with many daytime shows suitable for families.

Where: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison Street, Seattle

If You’re Visiting from Out of Town: Easy Weekend Itinerary

If you’re visiting Seattle in March, St. Patrick’s Day is an easy weekend to plan around because many of the biggest events are centrally located and repeat every year. You don’t need to over-schedule. A simple, flexible plan works best, especially with Seattle’s March weather.

Saturday: Parade + Downtown Exploring

• Start with the Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Seattle.
• Arrive early to find a good viewing spot and enjoy the full parade experience.
• After the parade, walk or hop on transit to grab lunch, explore Pike Place Market, or warm up at a nearby café.
• Keep the afternoon open for shopping, sightseeing, or a rest before evening plans.

Sunday: Seattle Center Events

• Head to Seattle Center for the Irish Festival or the St. Patrick’s Day Dash, depending on your interests.
• Families often combine festival activities with indoor attractions on campus.
• Visitors without kids may enjoy a relaxed lunch or early pub visit nearby before crowds build later in the day.

Getting Around

• Public transit, rideshare, or walking are the easiest ways to move between events.
• Downtown and Seattle Center are well connected by bus, light rail, and the Seattle Monorail.
• Parking is limited during major events, especially on parade day.

What to Wear

• Expect cool temperatures and the possibility of rain.
• Layers, comfortable shoes, and a rain jacket go a long way.
• Green attire is optional but always welcome.

FAQ

When is St. Patrick’s Day celebrated in Seattle?

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17, but many of Seattle’s largest events take place on the weekend closest to March 17. This allows for parades, festivals, and family-friendly activities to happen when more people can attend.

Is the Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade held every year?

Yes. The Seattle St. Patrick’s Day Parade is an annual tradition and one of the city’s longest-running St. Patrick’s Day events. It takes place in downtown Seattle and is free and open to the public.

Is the Irish Festival in Seattle free?

Yes. The Irish Festival at Seattle Center is a free annual event. It is designed to be family-friendly and typically includes live music, Irish dance performances, cultural exhibits, and educational programming.

Is St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle family-friendly?

Very much so, especially during the daytime. Events like the parade, Irish Festival, library storytimes, and the St. Patrick’s Day Dash are popular with families. Nightlife events and bar crawls are better suited for adults later in the day.

What is the St. Patrick’s Day Dash?

The St. Patrick’s Day Dash is an annual 5K run and walk held at Seattle Center. It includes options for all ages and abilities, including a kids’ run, and is known for its festive, costume-friendly atmosphere.

What should I wear for St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle?

March weather in Seattle can be cool and rainy. Plan for:

• Layers
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A rain jacket or waterproof outer layer
  Green clothing is optional, but always encouraged.

Do I need tickets for St. Patrick’s Day events?

Most major St. Patrick’s Day events in Seattle, including the parade and Irish Festival, are free. Ticketed events may include the St. Patrick’s Day Dash or organized bar crawls. It’s best to check official event pages for current details.

What’s the best way to get around during St. Patrick’s Day weekend?

Public transit, walking, and rideshare are usually the easiest options. Parking downtown and near Seattle Center can be limited during major St. Patrick’s Day events, especially on parade day.

Is St. Patrick’s Day a good time to visit Seattle?

Yes. St. Patrick’s Day weekend offers a lively but approachable way to experience Seattle’s culture, neighborhoods, and community events before peak summer tourism begins.

Planning a Move to Seattle?

If you’re planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle, I hope this guide helps you make the most of the city’s annual events and traditions. From family-friendly festivals to longtime local favorites, these celebrations are part of what makes life in Seattle feel connected and vibrant.

If you enjoy discovering Seattle’s seasonal events, neighborhood highlights, and local lifestyle tips, I share new guides and insights throughout the year here on my website. You’re always welcome to explore, or join my email list to receive updates directly in your inbox.

And if you’re considering a move in or around the Seattle area, I’m happy to help you explore neighborhoods, understand the market, and find a home that fits your lifestyle. Feel free to reach out anytime.