Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a day that honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
Over the years, this day has evolved into a variety of festivals across the globe, celebrating Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green.
In the United States, Des Moines, Iowa, is no exception. The city comes alive with its unique blend of festive parades, lively music, and vibrant green attire. This blog post will guide you through the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Des Moines, Iowa, in 2024.
Table of Events and Parades
Des Moines offers a variety of events and parades to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Downtown Des Moines | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Shamrock Stroll St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl | Various Locations | March 16-17, 2024 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| St. Patrick’s Day Street Party | Historic Court District | March 17, 2024 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
Details of Events and Parades
Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a time-honored tradition that brings the community together in a grand celebration of Irish culture.
The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all decked out in green. The parade route winds through downtown Des Moines, offering plenty of viewing spots for spectators.
Shamrock Stroll St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl
The Shamrock Stroll is a two-day event that invites participants to explore various bars and pubs in Des Moines. Participants can enjoy a variety of Irish-themed drinks and food specials while experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife.
St. Patrick’s Day Street Party
The St. Patrick’s Day Street Party is an all-day event held in the Historic Court District. The streets are closed off for live music, food vendors, and plenty of green beer. It’s a great place to celebrate with friends and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Specific Places to Visit
- Downtown Des Moines: The heart of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, downtown Des Moines is filled with festive decorations, parades, and events.
- Historic Court District: Known for its lively bars and restaurants, the Historic Court District is a great place to experience the city’s nightlife.
- Des Moines Riverwalk: A scenic spot to take a stroll and enjoy the city’s beautiful views.
Routes to Take
- Grand Avenue: This route takes you through the heart of downtown Des Moines, offering a great view of the parade.
- Court Avenue: This route leads you to the Historic Court District, where you can join the St. Patrick’s Day Street Party.
Restaurants and Pubs
- Mullets Restaurant: Known for its great breakfast and river views, Mullets is a great place to start your St. Patrick’s Day.
- Hessen Haus: Offering a wide selection of beers and a unique German twist on St. Patrick’s Day, Hessen Haus is a must-visit.
- High Life Lounge: This retro-themed lounge offers comfort food and a great selection of beers.
Entertainment
St. Patrick’s Day in Des Moines is filled with entertainment options. From the lively parades and street parties to the bustling bar crawls, there’s something for everyone.
Live music can be found throughout the city, with local bands playing Irish tunes and popular hits. Many bars and restaurants also offer special events and promotions, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear green, the traditional color of St. Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: The parades and events can draw large crowds, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot.
- Plan Your Transportation: With many people celebrating, it’s important to plan your transportation. Consider using public transportation or a ride-sharing service.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in or watching the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a must-do. The parade is filled with vibrant floats, music, and community spirit.
- Attend the Street Party: The St. Patrick’s Day Street Party in the Historic Court District is a lively event with music, food, and plenty of green beer.
- Participate in the Shamrock Stroll: This bar crawl is a fun way to explore the city’s nightlife and enjoy some Irish-themed drinks and food specials.
- Visit Local Landmarks: Take some time to visit local landmarks like the Des Moines Riverwalk and the Iowa State Capitol.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: This traditional Irish dish is a staple at many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Irish Soda Bread: This dense, slightly sweet bread is a great accompaniment to any meal.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A hearty dish made with ground meat, vegetables, and topped with mashed potatoes.
Drinks
- Irish Coffee: A warming drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream.
- Guinness: This famous Irish stout is a popular choice on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Green Beer: Many bars and pubs offer green-colored beer as part of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
Other Details
Remember to plan your transportation in advance and always celebrate responsibly. Check the weather forecast before heading out and dress appropriately.
Most importantly, enjoy the festivities and the sense of community that comes with celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Des Moines, Iowa.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Des Moines, Iowa, is a vibrant celebration filled with parades, events, and plenty of Irish spirit.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone. So, wear your best green outfit, join the festivities, and make some unforgettable memories!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a community event featuring floats, marching bands, and groups celebrating Irish culture.
The Shamrock Stroll is a bar crawl event that takes place over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
Traditional Irish food like Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Soda Bread, and Shepherd’s Pie are popular, as are drinks like Irish Coffee, Guinness, and green beer.
Wearing green is a popular tradition on St. Patrick’s Day. Dress appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan to participate in.