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, has transcended geographical boundaries to become a global phenomenon. While it’s a public holiday in Ireland, celebrations are held in many parts of the world.
Table of Events and Parades
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Patrick’s Day Parades | Various locations in Tokyo | March 17, 2024 | Throughout the day |
| Bar Crawling Event | Various pubs in Tokyo | March 17, 2024 | Evening |
| St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Parties | Tokyo Bay | March 17, 2024 | Evening |
| “I Love Ireland” Festival | Yoyogi Park | March 16, 2024 | All day |
Details of Events and Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parades
The St. Patrick’s Day Parades are the highlight of the celebration in Tokyo. Organized by the Irish Network Japan (INJ), these parades feature a vibrant display of Irish culture with participants dressed in green, the color associated with St. Patrick’s Day. The parades take place at various locations throughout Tokyo and are a sight to behold with their lively music, traditional Irish dances, and festive atmosphere.
Bar Crawling Event
As the sun sets, the celebration continues with the Bar Crawling Event. Various pubs in Tokyo participate in this event, offering special discounts and serving traditional Irish drinks. It’s a great opportunity to experience Tokyo’s nightlife and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow celebrants.
St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Parties
For those looking for a unique way to celebrate, the St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Parties are a perfect choice. These parties are held on boats cruising Tokyo Bay, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline. The cruises feature live music, dance performances, and a variety of food and drinks.
“I Love Ireland” Festival
The “I Love Ireland” Festival is a two-day event held at Yoyogi Park. It features Irish music performances, cultural exhibitions, and a variety of food stalls serving Irish and Japanese cuisines. The festival is a great place to learn about Irish culture and history.
Specific Places to Visit
- Yoyogi Park: The venue for the “I Love Ireland” Festival, Yoyogi Park is one of Tokyo’s largest and most popular parks. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Tokyo Bay: The location for the St. Patrick’s Day Cruise Parties, Tokyo Bay offers stunning views of the city’s skyline.
- Various Pubs in Tokyo: Participating in the Bar Crawling Event, these pubs offer a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.
Routes to Take
- Yoyogi Park to Tokyo Bay: After enjoying the “I Love Ireland” Festival at Yoyogi Park, you can take the Yamanote Line from Harajuku Station to Hamamatsucho Station, and then a short walk to Tokyo Bay for the Cruise Parties.
- Tokyo Bay to Pubs: From Tokyo Bay, you can explore the nearby pubs participating in the Bar Crawling Event.
Restaurants and Pubs
- The Dubliners’ Pub: This Irish pub in Shinjuku is a great place to enjoy traditional Irish drinks and food.
- HUB British Pub: Located in various parts of Tokyo, HUB British Pub offers a wide selection of beers and a friendly atmosphere.
- TY Harbor Brewery: Located near Tokyo Bay, this brewery offers a variety of craft beers and a great view of the bay.
Entertainment
The St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Tokyo is filled with entertainment options. From the lively parades and music performances at the “I Love Ireland” Festival to the dance performances at the Cruise Parties, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the Bar Crawling Event offers a chance to experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.
Tips to Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
- Wear Green: It’s a tradition to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. Join in the fun by donning green attire.
- Arrive Early: The events, especially the parades and the “I Love Ireland” Festival, can get crowded. Arrive early to get a good spot.
- Stay Hydrated: With all the festivities, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you.
- Respect Local Customs: While enjoying the celebration, remember to respect local customs and regulations.
- Plan Your Route: With events happening at various locations, it’s a good idea to plan your route in advance.
Best Things to Do
- Join the Parades: Participate in the St. Patrick’s Day parades and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
- Visit the “I Love Ireland” Festival: Explore Irish culture and history at the festival held at Yoyogi Park.
- Enjoy the Cruise Parties: Experience a unique celebration on Tokyo Bay with music, dance, and food.
- Bar Crawling: Experience Tokyo’s nightlife by visiting various pubs participating in the Bar Crawling Event.
Food to Eat
- Irish Stew: A traditional Irish dish made with meat, potatoes, and onions.
- Corned Beef and Cabbage: A classic St. Patrick’s Day dish.
- Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with minced meat and mashed potatoes.
- Soda Bread: A type of quick bread that uses baking soda as a leavening agent.
Drinks
- Irish Beer: Try traditional Irish beers like Guinness or Smithwick’s.
- Irish Whiskey: Sample some fine Irish whiskey.
- Irish Coffee: A cocktail made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and topped with cream.
- Green Tea: In the spirit of the day, many places serve green-colored drinks.
Other Details
Remember to respect local customs and regulations while enjoying the celebration. Keep in mind that public drinking laws may vary, so it’s best to consume alcohol in designated areas. Also, remember to clean up after yourself to keep the city clean.
Conclusion
Saint Patrick’s Day in Tokyo is a vibrant celebration that brings together the local community and visitors alike. With its parades, festivals, and parties, it offers a unique way to experience Irish culture and tradition. Whether you’re joining the parades, sampling Irish food and drinks, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th every year.
No, Saint Patrick’s Day is not a public holiday in Japan. However, it is widely celebrated in major cities like Tokyo.
It’s a tradition to wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. You can join in the fun by wearing green attire.
Yes, everyone is welcome to join the St. Patrick’s Day parades.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the events, it’s best to check the official event websites or local news outlets closer to the date of the celebration.