St. Patrick's Day Events in the Washington DC Area
Washington, DC really knows how to celebrate with the luck of the Irish each year for St. Patrick's Day. Many people decorate their homes with enticing décor which any will inspire any grumpy leprechaun to celebrate. Better Homes and Gardens has some amazing St. Patrick's Day decorating tips that will add an elegant touch to any home or apartment in the Washington, DC area.
After decorating, some people love to throw private parties at their home. With any party, food and drinks are important, and for St. Patrick's Day it is no different. However, if you are tired of the typical green beer, Life Love Beauty has some drink recipes that are sure to impress even the most finicky guest.
To accompany the decorations and drinks, consider serving traditional Irish appetizers. Whether you are looking for elegant appetizers or appetizers to serve in a casual setting, Taste of Home has some wonderful Irish appetizer recipes to choose from.
St. Patrick's Day Parade Websites
Washington, DC doesn't wait for St. Patrick's Day to arrive to kick off Irish celebrations. This city is brimming with Irish-themed events each year during the first few weeks of March. So if you prefer to go out instead of entertaining from home, Washington, DC is the place to be. The DC area has pub crawls, parades and the ever-popular National Shamrockfest. Local area restaurants and bars also hold their own St. Patrick's Day events.
Parades
Washington, DC has its own spectacular parade, but so do other areas around the Washington, DC area. Twenty minutes away, Alexandria, VA has a St. Patrick's Day parade each year as well. It is hosted by The Ballyshaners, Inc. to promote Irish cultural awareness. About an hour away, Baltimore, MD also has a wonderful parade and Shamrock 5k that is definitely worth the drive for. Be sure to check out the websites listed above for the most up-to-date information on these parades and events.
National Shamrockfest
Click thumbnail to view full-sizeNational Shamrockfest
The National Shamrockfest has been rocking the Washington, DC area each year. With more than 40 bands on 10 stages, 15 party areas, carnival rides and games, vendors, plus so much more, the National Shamrockfest is an event you don't want to miss. It is the largest St. Patrick's Day Festival in the United States. Each year, thousands of people travel from all over the world to join in the festivities.
Pub Crawls
Pub crawls are common in most cities across the United States, but Washington, DC has several pub crawls and parties to choose from. The most popular pub crawls in DC are hosted by Lindy Promotions. Each pub crawl that is hosted by Lindy Promotions occurs on a different day during the first part of March leading up to St. Patrick's Day.
Rumors, which is located at 1900 M Street NW between N. 19th St. and N. 20th St., always throws their own St. Patrick's Day celebration. Aside from drink specials and bagpipes, they have free St. Patrick's Day souvenirs and various contests where patrons can have a chance to win prizes.
However if you are looking for a quiet place to enjoy St. Patrick's Day, consider visiting one of many gardens the Washington, DC area has to offer. Enjoy the quiet scenery and even satisfy your green thumb by picking up some spring gardening tips for your home or apartment.
Regardless of how you chose to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, Washington DC has something for everyone, young and old. The best advice when it comes to enjoying the festivities is to plan ahead. Most events are crowded and with all there is to do, it may be a bit overwhelming. However, don't over plan. Be sure to leave some room for spontaneity and let loose to have some fun in the celebrations.
© 2015 L. Sarhan