If you find yourself near Fort Lauderdale for St. Patrick’s Day, consider yourself extra lucky. The city doesn’t hold back with its celebrations, making it one of the best places to be in Florida when March 17th rolls around. Each and every year, you can expect the Guinness to be flowing, people to be dressed in green, and fun festivities across town all weekend long.

 

Not sure how to spend the holiday? We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite things to do this St. Patrick’s Day in Fort Lauderdale.

 

1. Celebrate with the city at the St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival. 

If you’re going to pick one way to celebrate Saint Paddy, this is our top recommendation! The Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival draws in thousands each and every year. You can expect to see all things Irish: decorative floats, bagpipers, interactive games, cultural activities, and even an Ode to the Cranberries performance. 

 

The festival starts at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, and runs through 7 pm. The parade will start at noon and travel east on Las Olas Boulevard from Huizenga Plaza all the way to SE 9th Avenue. 

 

2. Drink a pint of Guinness at an oceanside Irish pub.

Like Ireland, Fort Lauderdale is deeply rooted in its rich maritime and seafaring history. It is only natural to enjoy a proper Guinness while taking in the salty air. Stop by one (or a few) of Fort Lauderdale’s many Irish pubs to enjoy a frosty pint and good company. 

 

Some, like Briny Irish Pub, lean heavily into maritime kitsch. Others, like Waxy’s Pub, are the best place to catch a game of soccer or rugby. There are over a dozen pubs throughout the city, with each one offering its own unique vibe and specialty. If you want to try a few, get in on one of the many pub crawls happening around town over the weekend.

 

3. Enjoy some fish and chips and other classic Irish fare.

Even if a pint of Guinness isn’t calling your name, there are still plenty of reasons to pop into an Irish pub: the food! Fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash are all classics that you’ll find on the menu at many pubs around town. The dishes are as filling as they are comforting, so be sure to come with an empty stomach.

 

Some of our favorites around town include The Galway Shawl, The Field Irish Pub & Eatery, and Mickey Byrne’s Irish Pub & Restaurant. 

 

4. Sign up for the 13th Annual Fort Lauderdale Shamrock Run.

If you didn’t get enough of the festivities on Saturday, the Fort Lauderdale Shamrock Run may be calling your name. Held on Sunday, March 15, this 4- or 7.11-mile race starts and finishes at Huizenga Plaza and is a great way to show off your green and carry the energy of the weekend into the week ahead. 

 

Don’t forget to stick around after the race. Runners can enjoy post-race food, beer, music, and festivities in Huizenga Plaza.

 

5. Listen to traditional Irish music and watch Irish dancers.

As the holiday approaches, you’ll see more events pop up around town— however, The Field Irish Pub & Eatery’s authentic St. Patrick’s Day party is one you won’t want to miss. Stop by on March 17th for a lineup of traditional Irish music and dance. You’ll need reservations for this if you want a good seat, but luckily for you, there are three seatings planned throughout the day.

 

6. See Celtic Woman: A New Era at The Parker.

If you’re looking for a belated St. Patrick’s Day celebration, there’s no better way to do it than to see the famed Irish band Celtic Woman live in concert. The highly accomplished recording ensemble and world-class performing collective will bring Ireland’s rich musical heritage to The Parker on March 24. 

 

It may be a week after the actual St. Patrick’s Day, but seeing such a magical display of Irish culture is well worth the mention— and the extra wait. 

 

Where to Spend Your Florida St. Patrick’s Day

The best place to spend any holiday in Fort Lauderdale, including St. Patrick’s Day, is somewhere close enough to the action, far enough from the noise, but festive enough to keep the fun going. Yacht Haven Park & Marina checks all of the boxes! 

 

We’re just a stone’s throw from the parade and many of the best Irish pubs in town, but still offer a quiet retreat from the craziness of weekend festivities. It’s perfect for a quick weekend getaway or for a stay that’s a little longer. After you’ve had enough green, you can come back to your RV site, RVBnb, or marina slip and enjoy all that the resort has to offer.

 

Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Day FAQs

The following are some answers to some frequently asked questions we get around St. Patrick’s Day.

When is St. Patrick’s Day celebrated in Fort Lauderdale?

In 2026, St. Patrick’s Day falls on Tuesday, March 17th. However, many festivities will take place the weekend before. For example, the Shamrock Run will be held on Sunday, March 15, and the annual St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival will be held on Saturday, March 14th.

What is there to do in Fort Lauderdale for St. Patrick’s Day?

There is a lot to do in Fort Lauderdale on St. Patrick’s! The annual Fort Lauderdale St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival is the biggest event in town and a can’t-miss. However, you can also celebrate by participating in the Shamrock run or visiting one of the city’s many Irish pubs.

Where should I stay to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Fort Lauderdale?

Yacht Haven Park & Marina is a great place to stay, no matter how you plan on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. It puts you close to all of the action, but offers a quiet retreat when you’re ready for some downtime.