Boston is home to a large, proudly Irish population, and St. Patrick’s Day has been a cornerstone of Boston’s calendar for centuries. Here are five things to know about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Boston.

  1. Did you know that the Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been gracing the city’s streets annually on March 19 since 1901? If you’re in town, grab your green and join the crowds.
  2. It doesn’t need to be St. Patrick’s Day to explore Boston’s rich Irish heritage. The Irish Heritage Trail is a three-mile self-guided tour throughout downtown and the Back Bay that takes you to 20 celebrated landmarks, including the Rose Kennedy Garden, Kevin White Statue and Massachusetts State House.
  3. You don’t need to be in Ireland to experience true Irish cuisine. This St. Patrick’s Day, make sure you stop by a classic Irish pub for a pint of Guinness, roast and potatoes. The Harp in North Station, Ned Devine’s Irish Pub in Quincy Market and MJ O’Connor’s Pub in Boston Park Plaza are three classic establishments, and on St. Patrick’s weekend all will be hosting live music and traditional Irish step dancing.
  4. Music is an integral part of Irish culture — and Boston’s. No better proof can be seen in the success of the Dropkick Murphys, and their annual trip home to Boston to perform on St. Patrick’s day at the MGM Music Hall and House of Blues. This year, they’ll be performing from March 16-19, so if you haven’t yet bought tickets, there’s still a chance!
  5. For the athletic minded, Southie hosts an annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K Road Race on West 6th Street. The first 600 runners to register will receive a limited edition t-shirt designed by the Dropkick Murphys, who are sponsoring the race. 

No matter how you choose to celebrate, grab your green garb and book your transportation with Flight Line.