Today is the big day for St. Patrick's Day 2026, and cities across America are celebrating with massive parades. NYC's 265th annual parade kicked off at 11 a.m. on Fifth Avenue with over 150,000 participants and an estimated 2 million spectators lining the streets. Cleveland's parade stepped off at 1:04 p.m. from Superior Avenue, while Boston already celebrated its South Boston parade just days ago with enhanced safety measures and a new route honoring the 250th anniversary of Evacuation Day.
This year's celebrations carry extra meaning. Boston's parade followed a new route that mirrors the path used during the first Evacuation Day celebration, since St. Patrick's Day and Evacuation Day coincide on March 17, 2026. The NYC parade represents a 264-year tradition dating back to 1762, when wearing green was banned in Ireland but celebrated freely by Irish immigrants in America. The tradition has only grown stronger, with clear skies forecast for parade-goers today, though temperatures will stay cold in the upper 30s to low 40s with wind chill in the upper 20s.
From corned beef sandwiches to green beer to step dancing, today's festivities hit all the Irish-American classics. In Cleveland, iconic eateries like Slyman's were packed before sunrise with customers ready to grab St. Patrick's Day staple corned beef sandwiches. Beyond the parades, Irish clubs and pubs across the country are hosting parties with special deals, while cities like Boston have also cracked down on large bottles of alcohol (known as "BORGs") to keep celebrations family-friendly. Whether you're marching, eating green, or simply soaking up the Irish-American spirit, St. Patrick's Day 2026 is bringing the full green celebration.