Detroit's St. Patrick’s Day Spirit is Flowing

In the early 19th century, Detroit was attractive for Irish immigrants fleeing The Great Famine. A Catholic stronghold, the city had land opportunities and much labor work. Over the next 50 years, more than 15 percent of Detroiters had arrived from Ireland - one of every seven residents. According to The Detroit News, forty-five percent of the Irish population lived in the 8th ward — Corktown, while others settled on the near Eastside.

Intent on honoring their heritage, Irish leaders emphasized St. Patrick's Day celebrations, some starting as early as 1829 with the formation of the St. Patrick's Society. Numerous societies celebrating Irish heritage existed in the city, including the United Irish Societies, who became the sponsor of the city's "official" St. Patrick's Day Parade in 1958. The Parade was intended to bring together people of all cultures and nationalities in metro Detroit to celebrate Irish culture and make lasting memories.

Today, Detroiters of all nationalities take to the streets, bars, and other locations donning their best green gear to sip green beer and exclaim, "Erin go Bragh!"

Here are some of Detroit's Best St. Patrick's Day Celebrations.

Thursday, March 13th at 5:00 PM

Located at Cabbage Patch Saloon in Grosse Pointe Park. An outdoor tent, live music, drink specials, and more.

Saturday, March 15th at 12:00 PM

A wildly popular party, the Detroit Shamrock Festival features whiskey shots and beer all day, food trucks, and music by some of Detroit's best DJs including DJ Godfather, Chrome, Choff, DJ Cue, Moskal, DJ Keo and more.

Saturday, March 15th at 5:00 PM

Whether you're Irish or simply love a good party, our St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl is the perfect way to kick off the holiday. Experience the best venues, festive vibes, and incredible drink deals alongside hundreds of other party-goers dressed in their greenest gear! This event features food and drink specials, a professional photographer, and an afterparty.

March 14th and 15th at 6:00 PM

This ticketed event includes a wristband that equals waived cover charges and free entry to more than five bars in Greektown. A ticket also features unbeatable drink and food deals, a digital bar list and other exclusive perks.

Sunday, March 16th at 9:00 AM

Part of the official celebration, this race features a kids quarter mile in the morning, followed by an "Emerald Mile" and a Corktown 5K right before the parade kicks off.

Sunday, March 16th at 1:00 PM

Typically attracting 80,000-100,000 people, this is one of the country's largest St. Patrick’s parades and features floats, marching bands, color guard units, and more. The parade begins near the intersection of 6th Street and Michigan Avenue, it proceeds west along Michigan Avenue and disperses at 14th Street.

Monday, March 17th at 2:00 PM

This party at MIX Bricktown will feature an indoor and outdoor party and 12 hours of fun. The St. Patrick's Day Fest will have games, green beer, and other drink specials.

Monday, March 17th at Noon

Detroit's oldest Irish Catholic Church will host its 190th St. Patrick's Day celebration with a noon mass and a "Taste of Corktown" event featuring Live Music – Great Food – Craft Beer – Irish Whiskey. Enjoy small bites from various Corktown restaurants at this cocktail party-like event.

Events for Kids

Sunday, March 16th at 1:00 PM

Families will hunt for gold coins (candy) and treasures by navigating through the woods at Howell Nature Center using a map. Ages 5+ Welcome!

March 15th and 16th at 11:00 AM

Lucky Leprechauns will be scattering their lucky coins throughout Canterbury Village in Lake Orion and when kids find them they can bring them back to participating shops for a prize. There will also be bounce houses, magic shows and Irish dancers.

Saturday, March 15th at 11:00 AM

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a green twist at the Sterling Heights Nature Center! Dive into the spirit of sustainability as we explore eco-friendly practices and create green-themed crafts using recycled and natural materials. Learn practical tips for reducing waste and conserving resources while enjoying fun, hands-on, activities that highlight the importance of environmental stewardship.