14 Mar A Family Guide to Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC

St. Patrick’s Day in New York City is an exciting time for people of all ages. The city comes alive with the sounds of Irish music, the sight of green-clad parade-goers, and the spirit of Irish culture. Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with kids in NYC offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich history and vibrant traditions of Ireland, as well as the significant contributions of Irish immigrants to the city. Here’s how you can make the most of this festive holiday with your family:

Attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
A must-do for any family celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is watching the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. It’s one of the city’s oldest and most popular traditions, dating back to 1762. The parade features bagpipers, bands, and dancers in a lively display of Irish culture. Secure a good viewing spot along 5th Avenue early in the day, and don’t forget to wear green! The parade is not only a fun experience but also a live history lesson for kids, showing the pride and spirit of the Irish American community in NYC.

Explore Irish Culture Through Music and Dance
New York City boasts a rich tapestry of Irish music and dance, and St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to explore it. Look for family-friendly concerts or dance performances happening around the city.

Get Crafty with Irish-themed Projects
Engaging in St. Patrick’s Day crafts is a fantastic way to get kids involved in the celebration at home. You can make leprechaun hats, shamrock stamps out of bell peppers, or rainbow paper chains. These crafts not only spark creativity but also create an opportunity to talk about the symbols and legends associated with St. Patrick’s Day, like the shamrock, which St. Patrick used to explain the Holy Trinity.

Learn About Irish and NYC History Together
Take this opportunity to educate your kids about the history of Ireland and its connection to New York City. Visit a library to find children’s books about St. Patrick, the story of Irish immigration, and the Irish influence on NYC. The Tenement Museum in Manhattan offers an interactive glimpse into the lives of Irish immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and contributions to the city.

Savor Irish Cuisine
Introduce your kids to Irish culinary traditions by enjoying some authentic Irish food. Many NYC restaurants offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus featuring dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, and Shepherd’s Pie. For a sweet treat, bake some green-themed goodies at home, such as shamrock-shaped cookies or mint-flavored cupcakes.

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral, is not only an architectural marvel but also a place of historical and cultural significance. Take a quiet moment with your family to visit this landmark, admire its stunning design, and learn about its importance to the Irish community in New York.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in NYC with kids provides a wonderful mix of cultural exposure, education, and fun. By participating in the parade, exploring Irish music and dance, engaging in crafts, learning about history, savoring Irish cuisine, and visiting significant landmarks, families can deepen their understanding of Irish culture and its vibrant presence in New York City. This St. Patrick’s Day, create lasting memories with your family by immersing yourselves in the rich traditions and history of the Irish community in the Big Apple.