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 with much enthusiasm and joy in Idaho.
This day, which began as a religious feast day in the 17th century, 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 Idaho, the celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day is no different, with its unique blend of tradition and innovation adding to the vibrancy of the event.
This blog post aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration in Idaho 2024.
Table of Events and Parades
The Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Idaho is marked by a series of events and parades that bring together people of all ages. Here is a table listing some of the key events and parades scheduled for Saint Patrick’s Day in Idaho 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Downtown Boise | March 17, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Irish Dance Performance | Idaho Falls Civic Center | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
| Green Beer Festival | Coeur d’Alene City Park | March 17, 2024 | 12:00 PM |
| Traditional Irish Music Concert | Nampa Civic Center | March 18, 2024 | 7:30 PM |
Details of Events and Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Boise is a grand spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators each year.
The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all decked out in green. The streets of downtown Boise come alive with the sounds of bagpipes and drums, and the air is filled with the spirit of celebration.
Irish Dance Performance
The Irish Dance Performance at the Idaho Falls Civic Center is a must-see. Talented dancers from local dance schools put on a mesmerizing show of traditional Irish dance. The fast-paced footwork and rhythmic beats are sure to get your feet tapping.
Green Beer Festival
The Green Beer Festival at Coeur d’Alene City Park is a fun-filled event for adults. Local breweries offer their best brews, dyed green for the occasion. The festival also features live music, food trucks, and games.
Traditional Irish Music Concert
The Traditional Irish Music Concert at the Nampa Civic Center is a treat for music lovers. Local musicians perform traditional Irish tunes, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Specific Places to Visit
- Downtown Boise: The heart of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Downtown Boise is a hub of activity with its parade and numerous events.
- Idaho Falls Civic Center: Home to the captivating Irish Dance Performance.
- Coeur d’Alene City Park: The location of the exciting Green Beer Festival.
- Nampa Civic Center: The venue for the enchanting Traditional Irish Music Concert.
Routes to Take
- Boise River Greenbelt: A scenic route that takes you through the heart of Boise and offers stunning views of the river.
- Idaho Falls City Center Route: A convenient route that covers most of the city’s major attractions.
- Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive: A picturesque route that offers breathtaking views of Coeur d’Alene Lake.
- Nampa-Caldwell Boulevard: A direct route that connects Nampa and Caldwell, making it easy to travel between the two cities.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Irish Pub: Known for its authentic Irish cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- O’Malley’s Irish Pub: Offers a wide selection of beers and traditional Irish dishes.
- The Celt Pub and Grill: Famous for its hearty meals and live music.
- MickDuff’s Brewing Company: A popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts.
Entertainment
The entertainment options during the Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Idaho are diverse and cater to all age groups.
From live music performances and dance shows to parades and beer festivals, there is something for everyone. Children can enjoy face painting and games, while adults can sample green beer and enjoy traditional Irish music.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear something green, the color most associated with St. Patrick’s Day.
- Arrive Early: For popular events like the parade, it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Plan Your Day: With so many events happening, it’s helpful to plan your day in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on anything.
- Stay Hydrated: If you’re planning to partake in the Green Beer Festival, remember to stay hydrated.
- Respect Local Customs and Regulations: While enjoying the festivities, remember to respect local customs and regulations.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a fun and exciting way to celebrate the day.
- Attend a Concert: Enjoy a traditional Irish music concert at the Nampa Civic Center.
- Visit a Pub: Experience the festive atmosphere in one of Idaho’s Irish pubs.
- Watch a Dance Performance: Be mesmerized by the talent and skill displayed at the Irish Dance Performance.
- Explore the City: Take a walk around the city and soak in the festive decorations and atmosphere.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that is a staple at St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Irish Stew: A hearty and comforting dish made with lamb, potatoes, and carrots.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread with a deliciously crusty exterior and soft, dense interior.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A savory pie filled with meat and vegetables, topped with a crust of mashed potatoes.
Drinks
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail consisting of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with cream.
- Guinness: A popular Irish dry stout that originated in the brewery of Arthur Guinness at St. James’s Gate, Dublin.
- Irish Whiskey: Try a glass of smooth and flavorful Irish whiskey.
- Green Beer: A St. Patrick’s Day staple, beer dyed green in celebration of the holiday.
Other Details
Remember, St. Patrick’s Day is not just about wearing green and drinking beer. It’s a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.
So, take the time to learn about the history of St. Patrick’s Day and the Irish community in Idaho. Participate in the events, enjoy the food and music, and most importantly, have fun!
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Idaho is a vibrant and joyous celebration. Whether you’re participating in the parade, attending a concert, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
So, put on your best green outfit, join the celebration, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Idaho community. Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on the 17th of March every year.
Wearing green is associated with Ireland’s nickname, “The Emerald Isle”, and Saint Patrick’s use of the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish.
There are numerous events including a parade, a dance performance, a green beer festival, and a traditional Irish music concert.
Traditional Irish dishes include Corned Beef and Cabbage, Irish Stew, Soda Bread, and Shepherd’s Pie.
Popular drinks include Irish Coffee, Guinness, Irish Whiskey, and of course, Green Beer.