Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day to honor the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. While this day is celebrated in many parts of the world, the festivities in Tennessee are particularly noteworthy.
The state of Tennessee, known for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, hosts a variety of events and parades to celebrate this day.
From the lively streets of Nashville to the scenic beauty of Pigeon Forge, Saint Patrick’s Day in Tennessee is a blend of cultural traditions, festive foods, and spirited parades.
This blog post will guide you through the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Tennessee 2024, ensuring you have all the information you need to enjoy this special day.
Table of Events and Parades
Here is a comprehensive list of the main events and parades happening in Tennessee for Saint Patrick’s Day 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pigeon Forge St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Pigeon Forge | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| East Nashville St. Patrick’s Day Festival | East Nashville | March 16, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Knox St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Knoxville | March 16, 2024 | 1:00 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
Pigeon Forge St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Pigeon Forge St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a vibrant event that brings the community together to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.
The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and performers dressed in green, making their way through the city’s main streets. Spectators can expect to see traditional Irish dances, hear Celtic music, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
East Nashville St. Patrick’s Day Festival
The East Nashville St. Patrick’s Day Festival is a day-long celebration that includes live music, food trucks, and local vendors.
The festival is known for its lively atmosphere and wide range of activities for all ages. From face painting and games for children to beer gardens for adults, there’s something for everyone at this festival.
Knox St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Knox St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Knoxville is a grand event that attracts thousands of spectators each year.
The parade features local schools, businesses, and community groups showcasing their Irish spirit. The parade route is lined with spectators cheering on the participants and enjoying the festive spirit.
Specific Places to Visit
- Pigeon Forge: Known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant events, Pigeon Forge is a must-visit during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- East Nashville: This neighborhood is known for its artsy vibe and hosts one of the most popular St. Patrick’s Day festivals in Tennessee.
- Knoxville: Home to the Knox St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Knoxville offers a variety of attractions and events during the celebrations.
Routes to Take
- Pigeon Forge: The main parade route runs along the Parkway, offering plenty of viewing spots.
- East Nashville: The festival takes place in the heart of East Nashville, with many events happening along Main Street.
- Knoxville: The parade route runs through downtown Knoxville, with many viewing spots along Gay Street.
Restaurants and Pubs
- Pigeon Forge: Visit the local pubs and restaurants for special St. Patrick’s Day menus and live music.
- East Nashville: Try the local breweries and food trucks for a taste of Nashville’s culinary scene.
- Knoxville: Downtown Knoxville offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Irish pubs to modern eateries.
Entertainment
St. Patrick’s Day in Tennessee is filled with entertainment options. From live music at the East Nashville St. Patrick’s Day Festival to traditional Irish dances at the Pigeon Forge Parade, there’s something for everyone.
In Knoxville, spectators can enjoy performances by local schools and community groups during the parade.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear green, the color most associated with St. Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: For the best viewing spots, arrive early to the parades and festivals.
- Try Traditional Foods: Enjoy traditional Irish foods and drinks available at the festivals and local restaurants.
- Join the Fun: Participate in the festivities, whether it’s dancing to Irish music or cheering on the parade participants.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in or watching the parades is one of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Tennessee.
- Visit Local Attractions: Make the most of your visit by exploring local attractions in Pigeon Forge, East Nashville, and Knoxville.
- Enjoy Live Music: Many events feature live music performances, offering a great way to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Try Traditional Foods and Drinks: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Irish foods and drinks available at the festivals and local restaurants.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: This is a traditional Irish dish that is often served on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Soda Bread: This is a type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A traditional Irish dish made with ground meat, and vegetables, and topped with mashed potatoes.
Drinks
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail consisting of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with cream.
- Guinness: This Irish dry stout is a popular choice on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Whiskey: There are many brands of Irish whiskey to choose from, each with its unique flavor profile.
Other Details
Remember to plan your visit to make the most of the celebrations. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Most importantly, remember to enjoy the festivities and embrace the Irish spirit.
Conclusion
St. Patrick’s Day in Tennessee is a vibrant and festive occasion that offers a unique blend of cultural traditions and modern celebrations.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone. From lively parades to delicious food and drinks, St. Patrick’s Day in Tennessee is an experience not to be missed.
FAQs
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious celebration held on the death date of Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland.
You can expect a variety of events including parades, live music, traditional Irish food and drinks, and a festive atmosphere.
It’s customary to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. Also, consider the weather and dress comfortably for the events.
Yes, most St. Patrick’s Day events are family-friendly with activities suitable for all ages.