Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland, is celebrated not just in Ireland but around the world. One such place is São Paulo, Brazil, where the day is marked with much fanfare and enthusiasm.
Table of Events and Parades
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Green Parade | Paulista Avenue | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Irish Music Festival | Ibirapuera Park | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Traditional Irish Dance Show | São Paulo Cultural Center | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
| Saint Patrick’s Day Fair | Republic Square | March 17-18, 2024 | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Pub Crawl | Various Locations | March 17, 2024 | 6:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
The Green Parade
The Green Parade is a traditional event that takes place on Paulista Avenue. It’s a vibrant procession where people dress in green and celebrate Irish culture. Expect to see floats, bands playing traditional Irish music, and lots of enthusiastic participants.
Irish Music Festival
The Irish Music Festival is held at Ibirapuera Park. It’s a day-long event featuring performances by local and international artists specializing in Irish music. From folk tunes to contemporary Irish songs, there’s something for everyone.
Traditional Irish Dance Show
The São Paulo Cultural Center hosts a Traditional Irish Dance Show. Professional dancers perform traditional Irish dances, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.
Saint Patrick’s Day Fair
The Saint Patrick’s Day Fair at Republic Square is a two-day event. It features stalls selling Irish food and drinks, crafts, and souvenirs. There are also activities for children, making it a family-friendly event.
Pub Crawl
The Pub Crawl is an event for adults. Participants visit various pubs in the city, enjoying Irish beers and whiskeys. It’s a great way to experience the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
Specific Places to Visit
- Paulista Avenue: The location of the Green Parade, it’s a bustling street with shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
- Ibirapuera Park: The venue for the Irish Music Festival, it’s one of the largest city parks in Latin America.
- São Paulo Cultural Center: A venue for arts and cultural events, including the Traditional Irish Dance Show.
- Republic Square: The location of the Saint Patrick’s Day Fair, it’s a historic square in the city center.
Routes to Take
- To Paulista Avenue: The Metro Line 2 (Green) will take you directly to Paulista Avenue.
- To Ibirapuera Park: The park is accessible by bus routes 5154-10 and 675I-10.
- To São Paulo Cultural Center: The closest metro station is Vergueiro, served by Metro Line 1 (Blue).
- To Republic Square: The square is served by Metro Lines 3 (Red) and 4 (Yellow).
Restaurants and Pubs
- O’Malley’s: An Irish pub known for its live music and wide selection of beers.
- The Blue Pub: A popular spot for watching sports and enjoying a pint.
- Bella Paulista: A restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, perfect for a meal before or after the festivities.
- Bar do Gomez: A traditional Brazilian bar where you can try local snacks and drinks.
Entertainment
Apart from the events and parades, there are many other forms of entertainment during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. You can enjoy live music performances at various venues, participate in Irish dance workshops, or join a pub quiz at one of the Irish pubs. There are also special events for children, such as storytelling sessions and craft workshops.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: It’s traditional to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. Whether it’s a green shirt, hat, or accessories, make sure to show your festive spirit.
- Join the Parade: Participate in the Green Parade or any of the other events. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the celebration.
- Try Irish Food and Drinks: Don’t miss out on the traditional Irish food and drinks available at the fair and the recommended pubs.
- Respect the Culture: While it’s a day of fun and celebration, it’s also important to respect Irish culture and traditions.
Best Things to Do
- Enjoy the Music: Attend the Irish Music Festival and enjoy the rich sounds of Irish music.
- Watch the Dance Show: The Traditional Irish Dance Show is a must-see. The dancers’ skills and the traditional music are mesmerizing.
- Visit the Fair: The Saint Patrick’s Day Fair is a great place to try Irish food, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Join the Pub Crawl: If you’re of legal drinking age, join the Pub Crawl to experience the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty dish made with meat, potatoes, and carrots. It’s a staple of Irish cuisine.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent. It’s often served with butter or jam.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A dish made with slow-cooked corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes. It’s a traditional meal for Saint Patrick’s Day.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Ireland is known for its beer, particularly stout. Try a pint of Guinness or Murphy’s.
- Irish Whiskey: If you prefer spirits, try some Irish whiskey. Brands like Jameson and Bushmills are popular choices.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream. It’s a warming drink perfect for the celebration.
Other Details
Remember to plan your day in advance to make the most of the celebrations. Check the times and locations of the events, decide which ones you want to attend, and figure out the best routes to get there. Also, remember to respect the local customs and regulations, especially if you’re a visitor.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in São Paulo, Brazil, is a vibrant and exciting celebration. With a variety of events and activities, it offers a unique way to experience Irish culture. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, it’s a celebration not to be missed.
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th every year.
While some events may be free, others might require tickets. It’s best to check the official websites or local news for accurate information.
It’s traditional to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. You can also wear accessories like hats, scarves, or badges with Irish symbols.
Yes, many of the events are family-friendly. However, some events like the Pub Crawl might be restricted to adults.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check the official websites or local news.