It’s time to slip on Fido’s best green outfit, grab a Guinness and get your Irish on at these lucky St. Patrick’s Day parades that welcome canines! Remember that your dog will be surrounded by thousands of proud and sometimes raucous revelers, so pups who prefer quiet time should sit these out. They can still wear green to show off their inner leprechaun, or raise a toast with a dog beer for the occasion! For all the Irish Wolfhounds, here’s our pet-friendly review of seven of the most popular destinations for St. Patrick’s Day parades.
St. Patrick's Day Parades That Welcome Pups
Posted by Billy Francis
San Francisco
While Dublin might not be an option for Fido’s St. Paddy's Day, Golden Gate City will roll out the green carpet for him. Kicking off on March 16, the San Francisco St. Patrick's Day Parade is the West Coast’s grandest Irish event and features more than 100 floats, Irish dance troupes and marching bands. Many people bring their dogs to watch the festivities, and the four-legged Northern California Irish Wolfhound Club members are an annual attraction
Make the other "leprechounds" green with envy when you check into the Argonaut Hotel. Fido will be greeted with a treat at the front desk and will appreciate the park within walking distance from his room.
Boston
Called the “Capital of Irish America,” there is no neighborhood more Irish in Beantown than Southie. This community does St. Paddy proud with the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day/Evacuation Day Parade, which takes place this year on March 17. The celebration dates back to 1901 and includes a bit of colonial history, as St. Patrick’s Day coincides with Evacuation Day. On March 17, 1776, the British evacuated Boston, giving General Washington his first victory of the American Revolution. As such, don’t be surprised if you see a troop of “soldiers” in colonial garb firing their muskets as they march with the myriad of colorful floats and Irish pipe and drum bands.
After the parade, treat your pup to the relative peace, quiet and open grounds of Peter’s Park Dog Park before heading back to your pet-friendly digs at the Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf.
Chicago
After the arrival of huge numbers of Irish refugees in the 19th century, Chicago became known as the epicenter of Ireland in America. To this day, people flock from all around the world to enjoy St. Patrick's Day festivities in Chi-Town. Every year, organizers dye the Chicago River green in homage to the color of the day. On March 16, 2024, the city kicks off not one parade, but three for the weekend. You can bring Fido to the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday and then spend Sunday at either the South Side Irish Parade or the Northwest Side Irish Parade. Outside of Dublin, the South Side Irish Parade is the largest celebration of St. Paddy’s Day in the world. There’s music, dancing and plenty of floats to keep you entertained.
“Ruff” revelers can recover at the pet-friendly Thompson Chicago, where they will be greeted with treats, bowls, a pet store coupon and a bed.
Atlanta
Did you know that Atlanta’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the country’s oldest? It dates back to 1858, making it Atlanta’s longest-running event. The family-friendly emphasis ranks it among the best parades for four-legged lucky charms. In fact, when we contacted the event organizers, we received an enthusiastic confirmation that Fido was welcome to attend. No less than four local dog groups walk in the parade, along with (of all things) llamas! The parade route runs along Peachtree Street in Midtown, a popular commercial and cultural hub in the city.
In 2024, the parade takes place on March 16. When you’re ready to leave the crowd behind, you’ll be just a few blocks away from your pet-friendly room at the Residence Inn by Marriott Atlanta Midtown/Georgia Tech.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh has a huge Irish community, and the city draws crowds of more than 200,000 to its annual parade. Stepping off on March 16, the event includes many Irish dog breed groups and rescue organizations. Although the festivities are great fun, note that furry spectators will have to endure the sounds of gunshots from muskets and the sirens of firetrucks in addition to other loud noises.
Book a room at the historic, pet-friendly Omni William Penn Hotel and stay close to all the action on parade day.
Savannah
The Irish and the Irish-for-a-day will gather in Savannah on March 16 to honor St. Patrick, and many revelers bring their pups in tow. The city’s parade traces its roots back to 1824 and has grown to be one of the largest in the world. Join the celebration with your canine as it winds its way through the historic downtown district. Before the festivities begin, pick up some green gear for Fido at Woof Gang Bakery on Bull Street.
Enjoy a pet-friendly weekend in this charming city with a stay at the Hamilton-Turner Inn. Your four-legged friend will love the complimentary treats at this pet-friendly bed and breakfast, while you’ll fall for the gourmet Southern breakfasts and nightly turndown service with cookies!
New York
The Big Apple is famous for hosting spectacular parades, and the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade is no different. This televised event takes place on March 16 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and marches along Fifth Avenue, passing several NYC attractions including St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Central Park. While the animals and mascots are not permitted to march in the parade or sit in the stands, they are welcome to watch from the sidewalk with their owners. Just make sure your pooch is okay with crowds and loud noises.
Located just a few blocks from the parade route, The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York welcomes canine visitors of any size. It’s also steps away from Dog Run at Peter Detmold Park, a rare oasis in Midtown.
How are you and your dog celebrating St. Patrick’s Day? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!
Banner photo by Outlaw Off-Road Riders.