Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day that commemorates Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. However, the celebration of this day is not limited to Ireland.
It has crossed oceans and continents, and Montana in the United States is no exception. Every year, Montana hosts a variety of events and parades to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day, turning the state into a hub of Irish culture and festivity.
Table of Events and Parades
Montana is known for its grand Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations. Here is a list of some of the events and parades that are scheduled to take place in 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Butte | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Irish Times Pub Celebration | Helena | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
| St. Patrick’s Day Festival | Missoula | March 16-17, 2024 | All Day |
| Shamrock Run | Billings | March 16, 2024 | 9:00 AM |
| Irish Fair | Bozeman | March 17, 2024 | 11:00 AM |
Details of Events and Parades
Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Butte
The Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Butte is one of the most anticipated events of the year. The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all decked out in green and gold. The streets of Butte come alive with the sounds of traditional Irish music, laughter, and cheer.
Irish Times Pub Celebration, Helena
The Irish Times Pub in Helena hosts a special celebration on Saint Patrick’s Day. The pub offers a range of Irish beers and whiskies, and traditional Irish dishes. Live music performances add to the festive atmosphere.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival, Missoula
The St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Missoula is a two-day event filled with fun activities for all ages. The festival includes live music, dance performances, food stalls offering traditional Irish and local cuisine, and a variety of games and contests.
Shamrock Run, Billings
The Shamrock Run in Billings is a popular event that encourages participants to wear green and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in a healthy way. The run includes different categories to accommodate runners of all ages and abilities.
Irish Fair, Bozeman
The Irish Fair in Bozeman is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. The fair features Irish music, dance, food, and crafts. It’s a great place to learn about Irish traditions and enjoy the festive spirit of Saint Patrick’s Day.
Specific Places to Visit
- Butte: Known for its vibrant Saint Patrick’s Day parade, Butte is a must-visit during the celebrations. The city’s rich mining history and Irish heritage make it a unique place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Helena: Visit the Irish Times Pub in Helena for an authentic Irish pub experience. Enjoy traditional Irish music and food in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
- Missoula: The city of Missoula hosts a two-day Saint Patrick’s Day festival that is worth checking out. The festival offers a variety of activities and performances that cater to all ages.
- Billings: Participate in the Shamrock Run in Billings for a fun and healthy way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Bozeman: The Irish Fair in Bozeman is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. It’s a great place to learn about Irish traditions and enjoy the festive spirit of Saint Patrick’s Day.
Routes to Take
- Butte to Helena: A scenic drive through the Montana countryside takes you from the vibrant celebrations in Butte to the cozy Irish Times Pub in Helena.
- Helena to Missoula: From Helena, head west to Missoula to join the two-day Saint Patrick’s Day festival.
- Missoula to Billings: Travel east from Missoula to Billings to participate in the Shamrock Run.
- Billings to Bozeman: Finish your Saint Patrick’s Day tour in Bozeman, where you can enjoy the Irish Fair.
Restaurants and Pubs
- Irish Times Pub, Helena: Known for its traditional Irish fare and wide selection of beers and whiskies.
- The Celtic Cowboy, Great Falls: Offers a mix of traditional Irish and American cuisine.
- Silver Dollar Saloon, Butte: A historic saloon that serves a variety of local and imported beers.
- Sean Kelly’s, Missoula: A popular pub that offers traditional Irish food and live music.
- The Fieldhouse, Billings: Known for its locally sourced menu and craft beers.
Entertainment
Saint Patrick’s Day in Montana is filled with entertainment options. From live music performances at local pubs to dance performances at the festival in Missoula, there’s something for everyone. The parade in Butte is a visual treat with its colorful floats and marching bands. The Shamrock Run in Billings adds a dash of sporty fun to the celebrations.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear green, the color most associated with Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Try Traditional Irish Food: Use this opportunity to try traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage or Irish stew.
- Join the Parade: Participate in the parade or cheer from the sidelines. It’s a great way to get into the festive spirit.
- Enjoy the Music: Enjoy live music performances at local pubs and the festival in Missoula.
- Participate in the Run: Join the Shamrock Run in Billings for a fun and healthy way to celebrate.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participate in the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Butte. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit.
- Visit the Irish Times Pub: Enjoy traditional Irish music and food at the Irish Times Pub in Helena.
- Attend the Festival: The St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Missoula offers a variety of activities and performances that cater to all ages.
- Participate in the Shamrock Run: Join the Shamrock Run in Billings for a fun and healthy way to celebrate.
- Explore the Irish Fair: The Irish Fair in Bozeman is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. It’s a great place to learn about Irish traditions and enjoy the festive spirit of Saint Patrick’s Day.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that is often served on Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Stew: A hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with ground meat, vegetables, and a mashed potato topping.
- Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Try a pint of traditional Irish beer.
- Irish Whiskey: Sample some of the finest Irish whiskies.
- Irish Coffee: A comforting beverage made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream.
- Guinness: A dark Irish stout that is synonymous with Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Baileys Irish Cream: A creamy and sweet liqueur made from Irish whiskey and cream.
Other Details
Remember to plan your visit in advance as accommodations and transportation can get booked quickly during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations. Also, keep in mind that the weather in Montana in March can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately and be prepared for all weather conditions.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Montana is a grand celebration filled with parades, festivals, runs, and fairs. Whether you’re participating in the parade, enjoying traditional Irish food and drinks, or exploring the Irish Fair, there’s something for everyone. So, put on your best green outfit, join the festivities, and make the most of Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Montana 2024.
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
Saint Patrick’s Day commemorates Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland. It celebrates Irish culture and heritage.
You can expect a variety of events including parades, festivals, runs, and fairs. There will be traditional Irish music, food, and drinks, along with plenty of festive cheer.
Wearing green is a tradition on Saint Patrick’s Day. You can also wear accessories like shamrock-shaped pins or hats.
Traditional Irish foods include corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, soda bread, shepherd’s pie, and boxty. Traditional Irish drinks include Irish beer, Irish whiskey, Irish coffee, Guinness, and Baileys Irish Cream.