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. But how is this day celebrated in the sun-baked landscapes of New Mexico?
In 2024, New Mexico is gearing up to host a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration that promises to be memorable.
This blog post will guide you through the various events, parades, and unique experiences that await you in New Mexico on Saint Patrick’s Day 2024.
Table of Events and Parades
New Mexico’s Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations are spread across the state, each offering a unique experience. Here’s a snapshot of some of the events and parades that you can look forward to:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Downtown Santa Fe | March 17, 2024 | 9:00 AM |
| Albuquerque St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl | Downtown Albuquerque | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
| Socorro’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival | Socorro Plaza | March 16, 2024 | 10:00 AM |
| Las Cruces St. Patrick’s Day Fair | Main Street, Las Cruces | March 17, 2024 | 11:00 AM |
Details of Events and Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Santa Fe
Kick off your Saint Patrick’s Day with the annual parade in downtown Santa Fe. This event is a local tradition that brings together the community in a grand celebration of Irish culture.
Expect to see floats adorned with shamrocks, local marching bands playing festive tunes, and participants dressed in every shade of green. The parade starts at 9:00 AM, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Albuquerque St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl
For those who enjoy a more adult-oriented celebration, the St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl in downtown Albuquerque is a must-attend. Starting at 2:00 PM, this event invites attendees to explore some of the city’s best bars and pubs, each offering special promotions and themed drinks for the occasion.
Socorro’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Socorro’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival is a family-friendly event that offers something for everyone. Starting at 10:00 AM, the festival features live music, food vendors serving traditional Irish fare, and plenty of activities for kids. It’s a great way to spend the day if you’re looking for a more relaxed celebration.
Las Cruces St. Patrick’s Day Fair
The St. Patrick’s Day Fair in Las Cruces is another fantastic option for families. Starting at 11:00 AM, the fair includes a variety of stalls selling crafts and food, live performances, and plenty of fun games. It’s a wonderful way to experience the local community spirit.
Specific Places to Visit
- Downtown Santa Fe: The heart of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, downtown Santa Fe is a must-visit. Be sure to check out the parade and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Downtown Albuquerque: Home to the St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl, downtown Albuquerque is perfect for those looking for a lively celebration.
- Socorro Plaza: The location of Socorro’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival, Socorro Plaza is a great place for families to spend the day.
- Main Street, Las Cruces: The site of the St. Patrick’s Day Fair, Main Street in Las Cruces offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages.
Routes to Take
- Santa Fe Trail: This route takes you through the heart of downtown Santa Fe, offering a great view of the parade.
- Route 66: This iconic route is perfect for those heading to Albuquerque for the bar crawl.
- Interstate 25: This highway is the quickest route to Socorro Plaza and Main Street in Las Cruces.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Irish Pub: Known for its authentic Irish fare and festive atmosphere, The Irish Pub is a great place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
- The Green Clover: This restaurant offers a special St. Patrick’s Day menu featuring traditional Irish dishes.
- The Leprechaun’s Den: A popular pub that’s known for its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, The Leprechaun’s Den is a must-visit.
- The Shamrock Inn: This pub offers a wide selection of Irish beers and whiskies, making it a great place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
Entertainment
New Mexico’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations offer a variety of entertainment options. From live music performances at the festivals and fairs to the lively atmosphere of the bar crawl, there’s something for everyone.
Be sure to check out the local bands playing Irish tunes and the traditional Irish dance performances.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear something green, it’s a St. Patrick’s Day tradition!
- Arrive Early: The events can get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially for the parade.
- Plan Your Transportation: If you plan on attending the bar crawl, make sure you have a safe way to get home.
- Try the Food: Be sure to try some traditional Irish fare at the restaurants and food vendors.
- Join in the Fun: Don’t be shy, join in the dancing and singing and make the most of the celebrations!
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parade: Participating in the St. Patrick’s Day parade is a must. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
- Attend the Bar Crawl: If you’re of legal drinking age, the bar crawl in Albuquerque is a fun way to celebrate the day.
- Visit the Festivals: The festivals in Socorro and Las Cruces offer a variety of activities for all ages, making them a great option for families.
- Explore the Local Cuisine: Trying the traditional Irish fare at the local restaurants is a must. Don’t miss out on the corned beef and cabbage!
- Enjoy the Music: The live music performances at the various events are a highlight of the celebrations. Be sure to check them out.
Food to Eat
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that’s a staple at St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
- Irish Stew: A hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, and carrots. It’s the perfect comfort food for the celebrations.
- Soda Bread: This traditional Irish bread is a great accompaniment to any meal.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A delicious pie made with minced meat and topped with mashed potatoes.
- Irish Breakfast: A hearty breakfast that includes items like sausages, black pudding, and fried eggs.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Try some traditional Irish beers. Guinness is a popular choice.
- Irish Whiskey: If you’re a fan of spirits, don’t miss out on trying some Irish whiskey.
- Irish Coffee: A delicious combination of coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream.
- Green Beer: It’s a St. Patrick’s Day tradition to dye beer green. Give it a try!
Other Details
Remember, St. Patrick’s Day is not just about the parades and the green beer. It’s a day to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. Take the time to learn about the history of St. Patrick and the traditions associated with this day. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the celebrations!
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in New Mexico offers a unique blend of Irish traditions and local culture. Whether you’re participating in the parade, attending the bar crawl, or enjoying the festivals, there’s something for everyone. So wear your best green outfit, try some traditional Irish fare, and join in the celebrations!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
No, Saint Patrick’s Day is not a public holiday in New Mexico. However, many businesses and schools celebrate the day.
It’s traditional to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. Many people also wear accessories like shamrock-shaped pins or hats.
Yes, many of the events, like the parades and festivals, are family-friendly. However, some events like the bar crawl are only for adults.
More information about the events can be found on the official websites of the cities hosting the celebrations.
