Whether you’re chasing a pot of gold, a perfectly poured pint of Guinness, or just an excuse to don every shade of green imaginable, Denver is the place to be this St. Patrick’s Day. 

From high-energy parades to lively bar crawls, and even a festive 7K run (to balance out the pints, of course), the Mile High City knows how to celebrate like the Irish.

So, where should you go to maximize your luck this year? 

We’ve rounded up the top events guaranteed to fill your day with shamrocks, shenanigans, and maybe even a little magic. 🍀

The Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade: A Mile High Celebration of Green & Grit 

If you’ve never seen a sea of green flood the streets of Denver, you’re in for a treat — and if you have, you know this is one tradition you don’t want to miss. The Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade, happening Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 9:30 AM, is the city’s largest and most spirited celebration of Irish heritage, complete with marching bands, festive floats, and enough kilts and bagpipes to make you feel like you’ve stepped into the heart of Dublin.

Parade Route: Where to Find the Fun

The parade kicks off at 19th and Wynkoop Streets, weaving its way through downtown in a lively procession. Keep an eye out for Blake Street’s honorary transformation into “Tooley Street”, a nod to former Denver District Attorney Dale Tooley. And in true Denver fashion, organizers will paint a green stripe down the street, just to make sure you know exactly where to follow the fun.

What to Expect: Floats, Festivities & a Whole Lot of Irish Pride

From elaborate floats to high-energy dancers and powerful drumlines, this parade is all about spectacle and spirit. You’ll spot local dignitaries, community organizations, and Irish cultural groups coming together in a vibrant, can’t-miss display of Denver’s diverse and enthusiastic community. Whether you’re Irish by blood or just Irish for the day, you’ll feel the energy radiating from every float and footstep.

Pro Tips: Get There Early & Plan for the Party

Arrive Early: Nearly half a million spectators show up for this event, and seasoned attendees know that prime spots go fast—some even claim their turf as early as 6:00 AM. If you want a great view, set that alarm and bring a blanket or chairs.

Food & Drinks: The parade itself doesn’t provide food or beverages, but Downtown Denver’s bars and restaurants are ready to keep the party going. Stop in for a hearty Irish breakfast, a mid-morning pint, or a festive cocktail.

Restroom Situation: There aren’t official parade-provided restrooms, so make a pit stop at one of the many nearby establishments before settling in for the show.

Olde Town Arvada St. Patrick’s Day Festival: Celebrate in Denver’s Up-and-Coming Hotspot

If you’re looking for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration with small-town charm and big-time energy, Olde Town Arvada is calling your name. One of the Denver metro area’s most exciting up-and-coming neighborhoods, Arvada is quickly gaining a reputation for its walkable streets, hip local businesses, and lively community events — and its St. Patrick’s Day Festival is the perfect excuse to check it out.

The Festival: A Street Party for Everyone

Happening Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, this free, all-ages event turns Olde Town into a shamrock-covered playground. With live music, over 95 local vendors, food trucks, a dedicated kids’ zone, and plenty of adult libations, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re corralling the little ones, sipping whiskey with friends, or just soaking in the festive vibes. Rain, snow, or shine, this festival is happening.

Live Music & Entertainment

The lineup is stacked with acts that will have you dancing in the streets — literally. The festivities kick off with Centennial State Pipes and Drums at 12:00 PM, setting the perfect Irish tone with their rousing bagpipes and drums. From there, you can catch:

Stomp Street Heist (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM at the Bank Stage) – Expect a high-energy, foot-stomping good time.

West of Fennario (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM at the Square Stage) – Bringing a touch of folk-rock flair to the celebration.

And that’s just the start—more performances and surprises are in store throughout the day.

St. Patrick’s Day at Stoney’s: A Laid-Back Way to Get Lucky

Want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without wading through a sea of green-clad revelers? Stoney’s has you covered. With two locations in Denver, this beloved sports bar is the perfect spot to kick back, enjoy some festive eats, and sip on a pint — without the full-on parade madness.

The Vibes: Festive, But Chill

Stoney’s is known for its relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for those who want to get in the St. Paddy’s spirit without battling the downtown crowds. Whether you’re catching up with friends, grabbing a bite after work, or just looking for a low-key way to toast to the Irish, this is your spot.

The Specials: Irish Comfort Food Done Right

Stoney’s is rolling out the green carpet (figuratively speaking) with festive food and drink specials all weekend long, starting Thursday, March 13 and running through Sunday, March 16.

  • Green Beef – Because why should beer have all the fun?
  • Reuben Egg Rolls – A crispy, bite-sized twist on a classic sandwich.
  • Corned Beef & Cabbage – No St. Paddy’s menu is complete without it.
  • All-Day Happy Hour on Friday – Because it’s never too early (or too late) for a celebratory pint.

So if you want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day without the chaos, grab a booth, order up some Reuben egg rolls and a cold Guinness, and enjoy the holiday — Stoney’s style.

Get Your Green On, Denver!

No matter how you like to celebrate — cheering on a parade, bar-hopping through downtown, dancing in Olde Town Arvada, or keeping it low-key with a pint at Stoney’s — Denver has plenty of ways to get lucky this St. Patrick’s Day. 

So dust off your best green gear, gather your crew, and get ready for a weekend filled with shamrocks, shenanigans, and a whole lot of Irish cheer. Sláinte!