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Celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Center City

While the Birds may be done for the season, there's another reason to keep your Kelly green ready this March. Whether you are looking for authentic Irish dishes or post-parade fun, there are lots of things to do on St. Patrick’s Day weekend in Center City with your family. Check out our top picks for tapping into the “Luck of the Irish.” 

Cheer on the Parade  

Erin go Bragh! The Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held on Sunday, March 16, beginning at 16th Street and JFK Boulevard at 11 a.m. Set up your spot in Center City and cheer on the Irish dancers, parade floats, music and more. 

📍 Various  
Website 

Enjoy a Box of Irish Potatoes 

Irish potatoes are a Philadelphia tradition on St. Patrick’s Day! Visit family-owned Lore’s Chocolates (34 S. 7th Street) on Jewelers’ Row or the Pennsylvania General Store in the Reading Terminal Market to get a box of these sweet treats while they’re available. 

📍 Various  

Indulge at Philadelphia’s Oldest Irish Pub 

McGillin’s Olde Ale House’s beer taps have been flowing since 1860 — making it the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia and one of the oldest in the country. On St. Patrick’s Day, stop in for a green beer and Irish pub fare like shepherd’s pie. Sláinte! 

📍1310 Drury Street 
Website 

Capture an Insta-Worthy Photo at The Elephant Restaurant & Bar 

Enjoy an espresso martini and make your friends green with envy at The Elephant this St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Sip on one of their festive cocktails and mocktails while posing in front of their themed decorations. 

📍 1500 Locust Street  
🔗 Instagram  

Tuck into an Irish Meal at Con Murphy’s Pub 

In the mood for an Irish feast to complete your St. Patrick’s Day Weekend? Con Murphy’s Pub will satisfy your craving for hearty classics like bangers & mash and savory Guiness beef stew. 

📍 1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway  
🔗 Website 

Dress in Festive Green Gear from East Market 

The wearin’ of the green is a requirement on St. Patrick’s Day! Find great options at one of the many affordable retailers in Market East. Options include national chains like Ross  Dress for Less (1044 Market Street), TJ Maxx (1130 Market) and Primark (1033 Market).  

📍 Various, Market East  

Jam to Celtic Music at City Winery 

On March 16 at 7:30 p.m., listen to Abbots Cross at City Winery, a Celtic musical ensemble known for their lilting blend of traditional and modern tunes. 

📍 990 Filbert Street 
Website 

 

Photo credit: St. Patrick's Day Parade photo by R. Kennedy. for Visit Philadelphia

Looking for More Inspiration in the City? 

So many fun ways to spend a day in the city, so little time! See other ways you can explore our city here, and  tag us at @centercitydistrict on Instagram to share how you spent your day in Center City!