The legacy of New Orleans' historic Irish community can be seen and experienced in multiple ways around the city. The Irish have been in the Crescent City since the 1700s and at first faced deplorable living conditions, as well as dangerous work while digging the New Basin Canal. Now, the community is well integrated into New Orleans' culture and is reflected in landmarks like the city's Irish Channel neighborhood and the beautiful St. Patrick's Church on Camp Street. St. Paddy's Day is a big deal in the Big Easy, so celebrate NOLA's Irish community by taking part in any of these events or activities.
Celebrate St. Paddy's Day in NOLA
1. Dat Dog
Multiple Locations
datdog.com
Known for their creative hot dog creations, Dat Dog embraces the St. Patrick's Day spirit with their special "Irish Channel Dog" featuring a Guinness-infused bratwurst. This festive favorite is topped with savory andouille sauce, caramelized onions, shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and tangy yellow mustard, creating the perfect blend of Irish influence and New Orleans flair.
Dat Dog locations offer Irish-themed drink specials including Guinness on tap and Irish whiskey. The restaurant's casual, vibrant atmosphere and outdoor seating make it an ideal spot to fuel up before or after the Irish Channel parade festivities.
2. Irish Cultural Museum of New Orleans
933 Conti St., 504-272-0083
facebook.com/IrishCulturalMuseumOfNewOrleans
Housed in a historic French Quarter building, the Irish Cultural Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of Irish immigrants who helped shape New Orleans. The museum features interactive exhibits chronicling the Irish experience in the city, but its hidden gem is the adjoining pub where visitors can sample authentic Irish spirits. Their impressive collection of Irish whiskeys ranges from smooth Jameson to complex Redbreast, perfect for sipping while exploring the cultural displays.
Don't miss their legendary Irish Coffee, made with premium whiskey and freshly whipped cream, or their innovative Irish Espresso Martini that blends traditional Irish spirits with New Orleans cocktail craftsmanship. The outdoor courtyard provides a tranquil setting to enjoy these Irish libations while reflecting on the significant contributions of Irish culture to the Crescent City.
3. The Vintage
3121 Magazine St., 504-324-7144
thevintagenola.com
This cozy Magazine Street wine bar transforms into a St. Patrick's Day haven with their exceptional Irish coffee offerings. Their classic Irish Coffee, available hot or iced for $9, features premium Irish whiskey blended with locally-roasted coffee and topped with house-made whipped cream. For those seeking a refreshing twist, their $10 Frozen Irish Coffee delivers a perfect balance of rich coffee flavors and smooth Irish whiskey in a frosty, indulgent treat.
Their intimate courtyard provides a sophisticated retreat from the more boisterous parade celebrations. The knowledgeable staff can guide guests through their impressive selection of Irish spirits, making it an ideal destination for both Irish coffee aficionados and those new to this classic libation.
4. NOLA Brewing Company
3001 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-896-9996
nolabrewing.com
This beloved local brewery embraces St. Patrick's Day with their signature Irish Channel Stout, a rich 6.8% ABV American-style stout named after their historic neighborhood. This smooth, dark brew features strong espresso notes with hints of baker's chocolate on the finish, perfectly balanced with a crisp bitterness from American hops and roasted barley.
During St. Patrick's Day celebrations, the taproom transforms with festive decorations and special releases of limited-edition green cans. Get your closest friends together and order a delicious pizza with your Irish Channel Stout.
5. Annual Shamrock Sprint
kellykickingcancer.org
Kelly Kicking Cancer is hosting its 10th annual, signature fund-raising event, the Shamrock Sprint 5K, which will also feature their first ever Certified 10K (for racers that need qualifying times for other races), as well as a 1-Mile Fun Run & Family Fun Day (fun music & DJs will be on hand), on Saturday, March 22, at the Covington Trailhead in downtown Covington.
The Shamrock Sprint race day registration and number pick up will begin at 7 a.m. The 1-Mile Fun Run starts at 8 a.m. and the Shamrock Sprint 5K and 10K will begin at 8:30 a.m. The Covington Trailhead is located at 419 N. New Hampshire St. in downtown Covington. Registration is $35 a person and includes a free t-shirt if one signs up by March 7.
6. St. Alphonsus Art & Cultural Center
2025 Constance St., 504-524-8116
stalphonsusneworleans.org
St. Alphonsus Art & Cultural Center stands as a magnificent example of 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture in New Orleans' historic Irish Channel. Built in 1855, this Gothic Revival church served the area's growing Irish immigrant population and features stunning architectural details, including soaring twin spires, remarkable stained glass windows, and intricate interior frescoes. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and now operates as a cultural center dedicated to preserving the area's rich Irish heritage.
Today, visitors can explore this architectural gem during public hours every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The cultural center offers guided tours highlighting the building's historical significance, architectural features, and the story of Irish immigration in New Orleans. Private tours can be arranged by calling (504) 524-8116. The center provides convenient on-site parking, making it easily accessible for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.
7. New Orleans Downtown Irish Club Parade
downtownirishclub.com/home.html
The Downtown Irish Club Parade, the only parade that rolls on St. Patrick's Day proper (March 17th), features lively stops at several beloved New Orleans establishments. As participants march from the Marigny to the CBD, they can enjoy special Irish offerings at venues like Molly's at the Market, which serves traditional Irish coffee made with premium whiskey and topped with fresh whipped cream. The parade's energetic atmosphere is fueled by festive green beer at multiple stops along the route.
The final destination at Lucy's Retired Surfers Bar welcomes parade-goers with Guinness-infused specialties. Throughout the parade route, marchers and spectators can celebrate the unique blend of Irish traditions and New Orleans festivity that defines this 49-year-old celebration.
8. Erin Rose
811 Conti St., 504-522-3573
erinrosebar.com
This beloved French Quarter spot transforms into an Irish oasis during St. Patrick's Day, serving their famous Frozen Irish Coffee—a delicious blend of coffee, Irish whiskey, and cream that's blended to perfection. Their traditional hot Irish coffees are equally impressive, crafted with care and topped with fresh cream. The bar proudly keeps Guinness on tap year-round, making it a staple for authentic Irish stout lovers celebrating the holiday.
Erin Rose boasts an impressive selection of Irish whiskeys that knowledgeable bartenders are happy to recommend during the festivities. Their daily "Wake Up and Live" special from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. includes both hot and frozen Irish coffees for just $4, making it an ideal spot to kickstart St. Patrick's Day celebrations. The casual, welcoming atmosphere draws a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike, creating the perfect blend of authentic Irish tradition and New Orleans charm.
9. The Channel & Parasol's St. Patrick's Day Block Party
Various Locations
This small corner joint is etched into Irish Channel history and carries a long St. Patrick's Day tradition. During their famous block party, Parasol's offers a special selection of Guinness-based cocktails and Irish-inspired libations that draw crowds from across the city. Their signature Irish coffee, made with premium whiskey and topped with fresh whipped cream, has become a St. Patrick's Day staple for locals and visitors alike.
Make sure to also visit The Channel, just a block away from Parasol's, to continue on the celebrations. Visit on March 17 for a costume contest and a chance to win $500. Make your make to both Parasol's and The Channel for some green beer and some good times.
10. Pat O'Briens' St. Patrick's Day Party
718 St. Peter St., 504-525-4823
patobriens.com
This legendary French Quarter establishment transforms for St. Patrick's Day with a festive celebration featuring traditional Irish offerings. At Pat O'Brien's, guests can enjoy great drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere that has made this venue a New Orleans institution.
As the celebration continues, Pat O'Brien's offers a complete St. Patrick's Day experience with live music and a DJ in their tent area, creating the perfect backdrop for holiday merriment. With their comprehensive celebration planned, Pat O'Brien's encourages responsible enjoyment by recommending ride-share services for those partaking in their Irish-themed libations, ensuring a safe and memorable St. Patrick's Day for all attendees.
Give a Toast to NOLA's Irish Community
While the Irish have faced many, many hardships throughout history, they have persevered and managed to preserve their unique traditions and identity within strong-knit communities all over the world. The best way the Crescent City honors people is through joyful celebrations, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in NOLA. So no matter if it's going to the Irish Channel parade or having a pint of Guinness, go out and celebrate the unique culture and wonderful people who came from the Emerald Isle.
