St Paddy's Day '25 in DC

Ah, St. Patrick’s Day in the Washington, D.C. area—where the Irish spirit is alive and well, and the community comes together to celebrate heritage, history, and a bit of well-earned revelry. While the capital city itself won’t host a parade in 2025, the surrounding areas are brimming with festivities that keep the traditions going strong.

Kicking off the celebrations is the 42nd Annual Alexandria St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 1st. Organized by The Ballyshaners, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting Irish culture, this parade transforms Old Town Alexandria into a vibrant sea of green. The procession features pipe bands, Irish dancers, and community groups, making it a family-friendly event that showcases the best of Irish traditions. The parade steps off at 12:30 PM, and spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot along the route.

The following Saturday on March 8th, the city of Manassas hosts its 25th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. A staple of Northern Virginia's Paddy's Day celebrations, the parade boasts a mix of military and pipe bands, Irish dance troupes, and cultural organizations, all marching proudly to honor their Irish heritage.

For those looking for something a little different, “Ireland at The Wharf” in Washington, D.C., offers a lively festival on Saturday, March 15th, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This event features live Irish music, dance performances, and plenty of food and drink. Located along the waterfront, The Wharf provides a stunning backdrop for the festivities, making it a perfect spot to gather with friends and family to honor Irish culture.

Beyond the parades and festivals, the Irish influence in Washington, D.C., runs deep. James Hoban, an Irish-born architect from County Kilkenny, designed the White House, bringing a touch of Irish craftsmanship to the heart of American democracy. His legacy is a testament to the enduring contributions of the Irish community in shaping the nation’s capital. At one time, a pub in D.C. even bore his name, a fitting tribute to a man whose work still stands at the center of power.

Another long-standing tradition that underscores the strong ties between Ireland and the United States is the annual visit of the Taoiseach to the White House for St. Patrick’s Day. Dating back to 1952, the custom involves the presentation of a bowl of shamrocks to the U.S. President, symbolizing the friendship and shared heritage between the two nations. In 2025, as in years past, the Taoiseach will make the journey across the Atlantic, offering a brief and welcome pause from the usual political drama in Washington. It’s a moment where history, diplomacy, and a bit of good Irish charm come together in a rare show of bipartisan celebration.

While the traditional parade may be absent from D.C. this year, the essence of St. Patrick’s Day is alive and well across the region. From Alexandria to Manassas, Baltimore to Annapolis, there’s no shortage of ways to mark the occasion. You might even find some of the Shift lads in the booth next to you at one of the DC areas fantastic Irish pubs. If you see Patrick or Paul, make sure to say Sláinte.