Getting the Green Light

For parade details, visit www.cincystpatsparade.com.

Given the long and cold winter we’ve endured, it’s perfectly understandable to want to jumpstart spring.

Let the sun – and green – shine in with early celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.

The weekend begins with an Irish Coffee Tasting on Friday, March 13. This progressive event move s through five venues, with proceeds benefitting the Ohio River Foundation, tying the event’s coffee focus to water conservation and environmental impact.

Then one of Cincinnati’s most beloved traditions returns on Saturday, March 14 as the 58th St. Patrick’s Day Parade brings thousands downtown to celebrate Irish heritage and community pride. The parade begins at 11:45 a.m. near Paycor Stadium and concludes at The Banks, featuring marching bands, Irish dancers, and cultural organizations.

“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a treasured Cincinnati tradition,” said Chris Schulte, parade organizer. “For 58 years, it has brought our community together to celebrate Irish heritage and share in a day of connection.”

This year’s Grand Marshal is former University of Cincinnati quarterback and broadcaster Tony Pike, adding hometown star power to the celebration. FOX19 will broadcast the parade live, bringing the sights and sounds of the event to viewers across the region.

Immediately following the parade, The Banks transforms into the city’s biggest St. Patrick’s block party: LepreCON, the largest gathering of leprechauns in Cincinnati. The free celebration on Freedom Way features live music, entertainment and food and drink specials at participating venues including The Stretch and Killer Queen. Revelers are invited to paint the town green with festive attire, music and local favorites for an afternoon of fun following the parade. 

Irish and Irish-adjacent folks are encouraged to arrive early and stay late to enjoy the restaurants, pubs and riverfront atmosphere. In addition to official events, bars and patios throughout The Banks will offer St. Patrick’s-themed specials and entertainment throughout the weekend.