St. Patrick’s Day 2018
Kansas City has strong ties to Ireland dating to the 1800s. Irish immigrants played a big role in shaping the area and brought a rich variety of customs to town.
Irish dance, food, music and St. Patrick’s Day have been a staple in KCMO for nearly 100 years.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade begins at Linwood & Broadway and proceeds south along Broadway to 43rd Street, finishing in KC’s Westport district.
Q & A with Ramon, our General Manager
Q: What is your favorite thing to do on St. Patrick’s Day?
A: “drink some green beer and sit on the side of Westport Road and watch all of the festivities and floats full of people that love to throw green beads!!! They even turn the fountains green!! Have a fun and safe day out there!”
The Kansas City Irish Center helps host the massive St. Paddy’s Day parade that winds through the city, but that’s just one link between Kansas City and the Emerald Isle.
The Snake Saturday Parade kicks off the official event weekend—but it takes place a full week before March 17th. St. Patrick’s Day is more of a season in KCMO, and the Snake Parade leads a two-day festival that includes a carnival, attractions for the kids and a massive cook-off. The family-friendly event has raised over $1 million in over 30 years.
Green Debauchery
Head south to Westport for the famous four-mile run that’s considered a warm-up before a huge Irish breakfast. Little ones can sign up for the Little Shamrock Run, which covers three blocks. You’ll find a variety of parades in Midtown, Blue Springs, Leavenworth and more. A small trip to Weston leads you to the Celtic Ranch where you can uncover a veritable pot of gold in the shape of jewelry and treasures.
No matter where and how you party, get there early. KCMO takes St. Patrick’s month very seriously, and you don’t want to miss out on any of the fun. Dress in your best green, sidle up for a special of Jameson, and get ready to tuck into platefuls of authentic Irish grub.