A Tale of Two Cities: St. Patrick’s Day in the Twin Cities

Every March 17th, the Twin Cities transform into a sea of green, as revelers don their finest shamrocks, kilts, and Claddagh rings to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. While both Minneapolis and Saint Paul pay homage to Irish heritage with parades, the festivities in each city carry their own unique charm, reflecting the distinct personalities of the two urban centers.

Saint Paul: A Grand Tradition

Saint Paul, the city that proudly claims to be the most Irish in Minnesota, hosts what many believe to be the greatest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the nation. Steeped in history and community spirit, the parade kicks off at noon in downtown Saint Paul, beginning at Rice Park and marching along 5th Street before concluding near Mears Park. The route is lined with spectators eager to celebrate Irish culture, music, and tradition.

Saint Paul’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a family-friendly event that embodies the city’s deep-rooted Irish connections. Generations of families participate, and it’s common to see multiple generations walking together, donning green scarves and waving Irish flags. The parade is a showcase of marching bands, Irish dancers, community groups, and, of course, bagpipers. It’s an afternoon steeped in nostalgia, camaraderie, and the warm embrace of a city that treasures its Irish heritage.

St. Paul, Minnesota - Website

Minneapolis: A Nighttime Affair

Across the river, Minneapolis takes a slightly different approach, hosting its 57th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 6:00 PM along Nicollet Avenue. This evening parade, organized by the Minneapolis St. Patrick’s Day Association, starts at Nicollet Ave and 6th Street and proceeds to 12th Street. The later start time gives Minneapolis a more energetic, nightlife-infused atmosphere, as parade-goers transition seamlessly into the city's vibrant downtown pubs and celebrations.

Unlike the free-flowing, community-driven parade of Saint Paul, participation in Minneapolis requires an entry fee—$25 for general participants and $100 for for-profit and political entries. Despite the logistical differences, the Minneapolis parade still brings out a passionate crowd eager to celebrate with floats, performances, and plenty of Irish spirit.

The fun doesn’t stop when the last float rolls through; after the parade, revelers gather at Brit’s Pub in the Club Room, a fitting location to toast with a pint of Guinness or a dram of whiskey. The Minneapolis St. Patrick’s Day celebration leans into the city’s reputation for entertainment, with a lively post-parade gathering that feels like an extension of the night’s festivities.

Minneapolis, Minnesota - Website

Two Cities, One Celebration

Though separated by the Mississippi River, Saint Paul and Minneapolis share an undeniable love for St. Patrick’s Day. Saint Paul offers a time-honored, family-friendly spectacle steeped in tradition, while Minneapolis provides an energetic, nighttime celebration perfect for those looking to keep the party going.

Whether you prefer the historic charm of Saint Paul’s midday parade or the lively, urban energy of Minneapolis’s evening affair, the Twin Cities ensure that everyone gets a chance to experience the luck of the Irish. Sláinte!