Saint Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious celebration held on the 17th of March, is a special day commemorating Saint Patrick, the foremost patron saint of Ireland.
This day, which marks the death of Saint Patrick, is celebrated with great enthusiasm not just in Ireland, but across the globe, and Maryland is no exception.
In Maryland, Saint Patrick’s Day is more than just a one-day event. It’s a celebration that spans several days, filled with parades, parties, and plenty of green. The celebration is a blend of religious observance, a tribute to Irish heritage, and a grand community festival.
From the bustling streets of Baltimore to the quaint towns of the Eastern Shore, Maryland embraces the spirit of the Irish, making it a fantastic place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in 2024.
Event Table
Here is a list of some of the key events and parades taking place in Maryland for Saint Patrick’s Day 2024:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easton’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade | Easton | March 10, 2024 | 5:30 PM |
| Annapolis Saint Patrick’s Hooley | Annapolis | March 15, 2024 | 6:00 PM |
| Baltimore Saint Patrick Parade | Baltimore | March 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM |
Event Details
Easton’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
The Easton’s Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is a beloved tradition in the town of Easton. The parade features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all decked out in green. The streets are filled with the sound of bagpipes and drums, creating a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Annapolis Saint Patrick’s Hooley
The Annapolis Saint Patrick’s Hooley is a lively event that takes place in the historic city of Annapolis. The event includes traditional Irish music, dance performances, and plenty of food and drink. It’s a great way to experience Irish culture and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
Baltimore Saint Patrick Parade
The Baltimore Saint Patrick Parade is one of the biggest Saint Patrick’s Day events in Maryland. The parade features a wide range of participants, from local schools and community groups to Irish dance schools and pipe bands. The parade route winds through the heart of Baltimore, offering spectators a chance to enjoy the festivities and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in a big way.
Places to Visit
- Easton: Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic charm, Easton is a great place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Don’t miss the annual parade!
- Annapolis: As the capital of Maryland, Annapolis offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The Saint Patrick’s Hooley is a must-visit event.
- Baltimore: With its lively waterfront and diverse neighborhoods, Baltimore is a fantastic place to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. The annual parade is a highlight of the city’s celebrations.
Routes to Take
- Route 50: This major highway connects Easton, Annapolis, and Baltimore, making it a convenient route for those looking to attend multiple Saint Patrick’s Day events.
- Route 301: This route offers a scenic alternative to Route 50, passing through several charming towns along the way.
- I-95: This interstate highway provides a direct route to Baltimore, ideal for those heading to the city’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Irish Pub: Known for its authentic Irish fare and warm atmosphere, The Irish Pub is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a pint of Guinness.
- The Green Turtle: This popular sports bar offers a fun and relaxed environment to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
- O’Loughlin’s Restaurant & Pub: Located in Annapolis, O’Loughlin’s offers a menu of Irish and American favorites, along with a wide selection of beers and spirits.
Entertainment
Saint Patrick’s Day in Maryland is filled with entertainment options. From live music performances at local pubs to traditional Irish dance displays at community centers, there’s something for everyone. Many of the parades also feature entertainment, with marching bands, bagpipers, and dancers adding to the festive atmosphere.
Celebration Tips
- Wear Green: Don’t forget to wear something green! It’s a Saint Patrick’s Day tradition.
- Plan Ahead: With so many events taking place, it’s a good idea to plan your day in advance.
- Stay Safe: Remember to celebrate responsibly. If you’re planning to drink, make sure you have a designated driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service.
Best Things to Do
- Attend a Parade: The parades are a highlight of Saint Patrick’s Day in Maryland. With their vibrant floats, lively music, and community spirit, they offer a fun and festive way to celebrate the day.
- Visit an Irish Pub: Experience the warmth and hospitality of an Irish pub. Enjoy traditional Irish fare, listen to live music, and maybe even join in a sing-along.
- Explore Historic Sites: Take the opportunity to explore Maryland’s rich history. Visit historic sites like the Maryland State House in Annapolis or the Baltimore Basilica.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Maryland is known for its seafood, especially its crabs. Try a crab cake or a bowl of Maryland crab soup.
- Take a Harbor Cruise: Enjoy a different perspective of Maryland by taking a harbor cruise. It’s a relaxing way to see the sights and enjoy the Saint Patrick’s Day festivities.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A traditional Irish dish that’s a staple at many Saint Patrick’s Day events.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A savory pie filled with meat and vegetables, topped with a layer of mashed potatoes.
- Irish Soda Bread: A simple and delicious bread that’s often served with butter or jam.
- Maryland Crab Cakes: When in Maryland, trying the local crab cakes is a must.
Drinks
- Guinness: This dark Irish stout is a classic choice for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Irish Coffee: A warming drink made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream.
- Irish Whiskey: Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Irish whiskey is a great choice for celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Green Beer: Many pubs and restaurants offer green beer as a fun and festive drink option for Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Smithwick’s: This Irish red ale is a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter beer.
Other Details
Remember, Saint Patrick’s Day is not just about the parades and parties. It’s a day to honor Saint Patrick and celebrate Irish culture and heritage. So, take the time to learn a little about the history of Saint Patrick and the traditions associated with this day. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the celebrations!
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Maryland is a time of joyous celebration, filled with parades, music, food, and community spirit. Whether you’re of Irish descent or just a fan of all things Irish, there’s something for everyone. So, don your green attire, join the festivities, and make Saint Patrick’s Day 2024 a day to remember!
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated annually on March 17th.
Saint Patrick’s Day commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It celebrates Irish culture and heritage.
Several events are happening, including parades in Easton, Annapolis, and Baltimore. Check local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Wearing green is a popular tradition on Saint Patrick’s Day. Many people also wear accessories like shamrock-shaped pins or hats.
Traditional Irish foods like corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, and soda bread are commonly associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. For drinks, Guinness and Irish whiskey are popular choices.