St Paddy's Day '25 in San Diego

San Diego is set to honor its rich Irish heritage with a series of lively events and festivities. The city's deep-rooted Irish connections date back to the 19th century, with notable figures like Andrew Cassidy and James McCoy playing pivotal roles in shaping San Diego's early community. Cassidy, hailing from County Cavan, oversaw the tidal gauge station at La Playa in the 1850s, while McCoy, from County Antrim, served as the county sheriff and later as a state senator, advocating for infrastructure and public services.

On Saturday, March 15th, the 43rd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival will start early with the parade kicking off at 10:30am at Fifth Avenue and Laurel Street. The procession will feature an array of floats, marching bands, and Irish community groups, reflecting the vibrant culture that has flourished in San Diego for generations. Following the parade, Balboa Park will host the festival until 6pm, offering live entertainment on multiple stages, traditional Irish cuisine, and various craft booths. This event is organized by the Irish Congress of Southern California, continuing a tradition that has become a cornerstone of the city's cultural celebrations.

Later in the day, the Gaslamp Quarter will transform for the 29th Annual shamROCK Music + Beer Festival. This all-ages event features continuous Irish and Celtic rock bands across multiple stages, traditional Irish dancers, and a variety of food and beverage options, including green beer and Irish whiskey. New for 2025, the "shamROCK After Dark" segment extends the festivities from 8pm onwards, ensuring the celebration continues into the evening.

For those eager to explore multiple venues, the IRISH 4 A DAY Party Hop spans Friday, March 14th, through the next day till late Saturday night. Participants will have access to over ten nightclubs and bars, with hosted drinks, exclusive food specials, and an atmosphere brimming with Irish cheer. The kickoff location is American Junkie San Diego, situated at 628 5th Ave.

San Diego's authentic Irish pubs are also preparing for the celebrations. The Field Irish Pub in the Gaslamp Quarter offers a genuine Irish experience with traditional food, drinks, and live music sessions. Stout Public House, located downtown, is known for its friendly environment, a wide selection of beers, and classic Irish dishes. As one of San Diego's oldest Irish pubs, The Ould Sod provides a cozy setting with live music and a wide range of Irish whiskeys. Can't argue with that!

San Diego is obviously all set for St. Paddy's Day. But are you?