Saint Patrick’s Day is coming on March 17, 2026. As it approaches, U.S. cities start preparing to go all out green. Here is a list of the wildest and most creative Saint Paddy’s Day stunts to anticipate on the upcoming holiday.
By Jayne Turner – Staff Writer
Chicago, Illinois
Since 1962, the Plumbers Local 130 has used a secret, eco-friendly green dye to turn the Chicago River bright green for about five hours – talk about leprechaun magic!
Did you know? According to Irish legend, leprechauns originally wore red, not green!
Dublin, Ohio
Saint Patrick’s Day is known as the “greenest and grandest day of the year” – it’s celebrated all week! Running from March 14-17th this year, there will be live Irish music, performances by international marching bands, and the iconic National Parade.
The highlight? All you can eat pancakes on March 14th.
Dublin, California
Did you know that there are multiple Dublin’s around the world? Not just in Ireland, but in Ohio and even California! Dublin, CA, is in the Bay Area, and they host a Shamrock gala on Friday, which leads into a two-day festival over the weekend.
You can expect bagpipes, marching bands, and horses.
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Did you know? St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is not even Irish? He’s British! He was also not technically a saint…
O’Neill, Nebraska
This is the Irish Capital of Nebraska, home of the World’s Largest Shamrock. This massive, painted emblem is visible from satellite! The town also hosts a large parade and a “Green Eggs and Ham” breakfast for children.
Did you know? Shamrocks aren’t just an arbitrary symbol for Saint Patrick’s Day. St Patrick used the three-leafed plant as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity when he first introduced Christianity to Ireland.
Savannah, Georgie
Savannah is a great place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in slow Southern living. Unless you’re coming on St Patrick’s Day weekend. Savannah hosts a St Patrick’s Day parade (this year will be the 200th annual), Shamrocks and Shenanigans Celebration, and a huge mass celebrating the Feast Day of St Patrick.
My favorite part? Forsyth Park’s famous fountain turns green!
Did you know? Saint Patrick’s Day is associated with green because of an American tradition. The legend that wearing green prevents pinching does not date back to Ireland or St Patrick. In fact, early texts depict St Patrick in blue!
Hot Springs, Arkansas
This city is home to two of the funnier celebrations. They made their way onto the list not for being huge, long events, but for the opposite! They host the World’s Shortest Parade. It lasts an hour, despite only spanning 98 feet. The event features Irish Elvis impersonators, Irish dancers, and the Blarney Stone (an Irish kissing stone that brings good luck).
They also host the “Zero K” Race. A play on a 5k or 10k, this Zero K is just 299 feet long and designed to lead people from one pub to another.
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I don’t personally celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day, but I do love a theme. So I know I’ll be wearing green, donning gold, and making some tasty Lucky Charms cereal bars!
