Top Things to Do in Vancouver for St. Patrick’s Day 2025

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most vibrant celebrations in Vancouver, bringing a lively mix of Irish culture, green-themed festivities, and community events to the city. Taking place annually on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day honours the patron saint of Ireland and has evolved into a worldwide celebration of Irish heritage.

While Vancouver previously hosted an annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the event is no longer taking place in 2025. Despite this change, there are still plenty of exciting events and activities happening throughout the city to celebrate Irish culture and traditions.

Here’s Vancouver Page's guide to the best things to do in Vancouver for St. Patrick’s Day 2025:

1. Attend CelticFest Vancouver

One of the biggest celebrations of Irish culture in the city, CelticFest Vancouver is a must-visit event during St. Patrick’s Day. Running for several days in mid-March, this festival showcases the best of Irish and Celtic music, dance, and storytelling. Expect to see lively performances, cultural workshops, and even whiskey-tasting events at various venues across downtown Vancouver.

• Location: Various venues in downtown Vancouver
• Dates: March 7-17, 2025
• Admission: Free and ticketed events available
• More Info: CelticFest Vancouver

2. Experience the CelticFest Vancouver St. Patrick’s Day Ceilidh

This lively event brings together traditional Irish music, dancing, and entertainment. A ceilidh is a social gathering with folk music and dancing, making it one of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day authentically.

• Location: Hellenic Community Centre, 4500 Arbutus Street, Vancouver
• Date:  March 14, 2025 - 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• More Info: CelticFest Vancouver St. Patrick’s Day Ceilidh

3. Visit an Authentic Irish Pub

No St. Patrick’s Day is complete without a visit to one of Vancouver’s authentic Irish pubs. Many local pubs host live music, Irish dancers, and special drink promotions, making them the perfect spot to soak in the St. Patrick’s Day atmosphere.

Best Irish Pubs in Vancouver for St. Patrick’s Day:

• The Blarney Stone – Located in Gastown, this legendary pub is known for its all-day St. Patrick’s Day party featuring live bands and a lively crowd.
• Doolin’s Irish Pub – A classic spot for Guinness, Irish stew, and live music.
• The Irish Heather Shebeen – A cozy pub in Gastown offering a great selection of whiskey and traditional Irish fare.
• Mahony’s Tavern – With locations at False Creek and Convention Centre, Mahony’s is a great waterfront venue to celebrate with friends.

4. Enjoy a Cooking Demonstration at CelticFest

CelticFest Vancouver also features interactive events such as cooking demonstrations, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Irish dishes.

• Location: This World's Ours Centre, 191 East 10th Avenue, Vancouver
• Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:45 PM
• More Info: Cooking Demonstration at CelticFest

5. Participate in the St. Patrick’s Day 5K

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to celebrate, consider joining the BMO St. Patrick’s Day 5K. This annual fun run through Stanley Park is a great way to enjoy the festive spirit while staying fit. Many participants dress in green, making it a lively and entertaining event.

• Location: Stanley Park Pavilion
• Date: March 15, 2025
• More Info: St. Patrick’s Day 5K 2025 Vancouver

6. Join the Shamrock’n Race in Burnaby

Another exciting running event is the St. Patrick’s Shamrock’n Race in Burnaby, which offers different race categories, including 5K and 10K options. Participants often dress in green and enjoy the fun atmosphere.

• Location: Burnaby
• Date: March 16, 2025
• More Info: St. Patrick’s Shamrock’n Race Run Burnaby

7. Enjoy Family-Friendly Events at CelticFest Family Day

For those looking for kid-friendly activities, the CelticFest Family Day offers fun activities such as arts and crafts, storytelling, and Irish dance performances for all ages.

• Location: Famee Furlane of Vancouver, 2605 E Pender St, Vancouver
• Date: March 15, 2025 - 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• More Info: CelticFest Family Day Vancouver

8. Explore Celtic Fest at the Museum of Surrey

This special event at the Museum of Surrey features live performances, storytelling, hands-on workshops, and interactive exhibits celebrating Irish culture.

• Location: Museum of Surrey, BC
• Date: March 22, 2025 - 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• More Info: Celtic Fest Museum of Surrey BC

9. Check Out Green-Themed Light Displays

Many landmarks around Vancouver light up in green for St. Patrick’s Day, creating beautiful nighttime scenery. Look out for these illuminated landmarks:

• Canada Place
• BC Place Stadium
• Science World
• Vancouver Convention Centre

10. Enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day Brunch

Start your day with a festive St. Patrick’s Day brunch, where local restaurants serve special green-themed and Irish-inspired breakfast items.

• Best places for a St. Patrick’s Day brunch:
  • OEB Breakfast Co.
  • Jam Café
  • Medina Cafe

Although Vancouver’s traditional St. Patrick’s Day Parade will not be taking place in 2025, there are still plenty of exciting events and activities to enjoy. From lively pub parties and cultural festivals to family-friendly fun and themed brunches, Vancouver offers something for everyone.

Put on your best green outfit, grab a pint of Guinness, and get ready to celebrate Irish culture in Vancouver this St. Patrick’s Day!

Discover more local events in Vancouver on Vancouver Page.