How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Canada as a Newcomer

March 17, 2025

Shireen Fisher

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun and lively holiday celebrated every year on March 17th. If you are a newcomer to Canada, you might be wondering how to join in on the celebrations. Whether you are in a big city like Toronto or Montreal, or a smaller town, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this Irish holiday. In this guide, we’ll explore how St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated, and give you tips on things to do in Canada on this holiday in 2025.

What is St. Patrick’s Day?

St. Patrick’s Day is an Irish holiday that celebrates the life of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is known for parades, wearing green, and enjoying Irish music, food, and drinks. Even though the holiday started in Ireland, it is now celebrated in many countries, including Canada, where many people have Irish roots.

Why Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Canada if You Are Not Irish?

St. Patrick’s Day is widely celebrated in Canada, but it is not an official public holiday in most of the country. However, it holds special significance due to Canada’s strong Irish heritage. Over the years, it has grown into a celebration that welcomes people from all backgrounds, making it a fun and inclusive event for newcomers. Whether you are Irish or not, it’s a great way to experience Canadian culture, enjoy festive events, and connect with your community. Here’s why it is recognized and celebrated:

Large Irish Community

Canada has a significant Irish population, with many Irish immigrants arriving in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, millions of Canadians have Irish ancestry, and their influence can be seen in the country’s traditions, music, and even place names. Cities like Montreal, Toronto, and St. John’s have deep Irish roots, making the holiday important in these communities. Whether it’s through historical landmarks, Irish pubs, or local organizations, the Irish culture has left a lasting mark on Canada. This strong connection ensures that St. Patrick’s Day remains an important cultural event.

Long History of Celebration

The first recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade in Canada took place in Montreal in 1824. Since then, it has become a major event in several Canadian cities. Montreal’s parade, one of the longest-running in North America, attracts thousands of spectators every year. Other cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, also host massive parades and events to mark the occasion. The tradition of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Canada has continued for nearly two centuries, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year. Even smaller communities host gatherings and festivities, proving just how widespread the celebration has become.

Cultural Recognition

Although St. Patrick’s Day is not a statutory holiday across Canada, it is recognized as an official holiday in Newfoundland and Labrador due to the province’s strong Irish heritage. The holiday holds a special place in this province, where many residents can trace their ancestry directly to Ireland. Newfoundland and Labrador’s connection to Irish culture is evident in its music, language, and even accents, which bear similarities to certain Irish dialects. On St. Patrick’s Day, workplaces in the province may close, and people take part in traditional Irish music sessions, storytelling, and social gatherings. This recognition highlights the deep cultural ties between Ireland and parts of Canada.

Parades and Public Events

Many Canadian cities celebrate with large parades, concerts, and festivals, making it feel like a holiday even if businesses and schools remain open. The parades feature Irish dancers, bagpipers, and elaborate floats decorated in green, representing Irish pride and heritage. In addition to parades, many communities organize fun runs, family-friendly activities, and cultural showcases. Irish pubs and restaurants offer themed menus, live music, and special promotions, giving people a taste of Irish culture. Whether you enjoy lively gatherings or quieter celebrations, there’s something for everyone on St. Patrick’s Day in Canada.

Embracing Multiculturalism

Canada is known for celebrating diverse cultures, and St. Patrick’s Day is one of the many cultural festivals that bring people together, regardless of their background. Even if you are not Irish, you can still take part in the celebrations, learn about Irish traditions, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The holiday serves as an opportunity for Canadians and newcomers alike to experience a different culture while embracing the country’s welcoming and inclusive spirit. Dressing in green, enjoying Irish music, and attending public events can be a fun way to connect with your community and make new friends. Ultimately, St. Patrick’s Day in Canada is about unity, joy, and sharing in the festive spirit with people from all walks of life.

While most Canadians do not get a day off for St. Patrick’s Day, it remains a widely celebrated and fun tradition across the country.

How is St. Patrick’s Day Celebrated in Canada?

Canada has a large Irish community, so St. Patrick’s Day is a big deal in many cities. People wear green, go to parades, enjoy Irish food, and listen to traditional music. Even if you are not Irish, you can still take part in the fun and experience Canadian traditions related to the holiday.

Join a St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Many cities in Canada hold St. Patrick’s Day parades. These parades feature marching bands, dancers, floats, and people dressed in green. Here are some of the biggest parades in Canada:

Montreal, Quebec – The Montreal St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the oldest and biggest in Canada. It has been running for over 200 years and attracts thousands of people. Expect lively music, colorful floats, and a festive atmosphere.
Toronto, Ontario – Toronto also has a large parade with many participants and spectators. The streets turn into a sea of green as people celebrate Irish culture.
Vancouver, British Columbia – Vancouver’s parade is smaller but still exciting. The city also hosts Irish cultural events, including concerts and pub nights.
Ottawa, Ontario – The capital city hosts a fun parade with performances and traditional Irish entertainment.
Halifax, Nova Scotia – Halifax has strong Irish roots, and their St. Patrick’s Day celebrations include parades, concerts, and special events at local pubs.

Wear Green and Show Your Irish Spirit

One of the simplest ways to celebrate is by wearing green. Green is the color of Ireland and is associated with St. Patrick. You can wear a green shirt, hat, or even face paint. Some people also wear accessories with shamrocks, which are symbols of good luck in Irish culture.

Enjoy Irish Food and Drinks

Many restaurants and pubs offer special menus for St. Patrick’s Day. If you want to try some traditional Irish food, here are some popular dishes:

Irish Stew – A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.
Shepherd’s Pie – A delicious pie made with ground beef or lamb, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.
Corned Beef and Cabbage – A classic meal often enjoyed on St. Patrick’s Day.
Soda Bread – A type of bread made with baking soda instead of yeast.

If you visit an Irish pub, you might find green beer or Irish whiskey. However, if you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy non-alcoholic Irish drinks like Irish cream-flavored coffee.

Listen to Irish Music and Dance

Irish music is an important part of St. Patrick’s Day. You can listen to traditional Irish songs at pubs, concerts, or even online. Some cities also host live performances featuring Irish bands. If you want to experience Irish dancing, look for step-dancing performances or even take a beginner’s class!

Attend a St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Some Canadian cities host festivals that go beyond parades. These events may include:

Irish dance performances
Live bands playing Celtic music
Family-friendly activities
Cultural workshops about Irish history and traditions

Montreal and Toronto often have larger festivals, while smaller cities may have community events.

Try a St. Patrick’s Day-Themed Activity at Home

If you prefer a quieter celebration, you can still have fun at home. Here are some ideas:

Cook an Irish meal: Try making Irish stew, soda bread, or shepherd’s pie.
Watch an Irish movie: Some great options include Brooklyn (2015), The Commitments (1991), or The Secret of Kells (2009).
Learn about Irish history: Read about St. Patrick, Irish immigration to Canada, or famous Irish Canadians.
Decorate your home: Use green decorations, shamrocks, and leprechaun-themed items to get into the festive spirit.

Explore St. Patrick’s Day Events in Your City

Every year, new events pop up in different cities. Check local event websites, social media, or community boards for updates on 2025 celebrations. Many places offer family-friendly events, so you can bring your kids along.

Tips for Enjoying St. Patrick’s Day in Canada as a Newcomer

If you are a newcomer to Canada and excited to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day for the first time, here are some helpful tips to ensure you have a fun and memorable experience. From staying warm to navigating crowded events, these suggestions will help you make the most of the festivities while embracing Canadian and Irish traditions.

Check the weather: March in Canada can still be cold, so dress warmly if you are going to a parade.
Use public transportation: Parades and festivals can get crowded, and parking may be limited. Public transit is often the best way to get around.
Arrive early: If you want a good spot to watch the parade, try to get there at least an hour before it starts.
Be respectful: While St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, be mindful of others and celebrate responsibly.

Join the St Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Canada

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Canada as a newcomer is a great way to experience Canadian traditions and enjoy Irish culture. Whether you attend a parade, eat delicious Irish food, listen to music, or simply wear green, there are plenty of things to do in Canada on this particular day. With so many exciting events happening across Canada in 2025, you are sure to have a memorable St. Patrick’s Day!

FAQs

Is St. Patrick’s Day a Public Holiday in Canada?

No, St. Patrick’s Day is not a public holiday in most of Canada. However, it is an official holiday in Newfoundland and Labrador, where many people have Irish ancestry. In other provinces, businesses and schools remain open, but cities still celebrate with parades, parties, and cultural events.

Where Are the Biggest St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in Canada?

Montreal hosts the largest and longest-running St. Patrick’s Day parade in Canada, attracting thousands of spectators each year. Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa also have major celebrations with parades, Irish music, and pub events. Smaller cities and communities across Canada also participate in the festivities in their own way.

Do I have to be Irish to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Canada?

Not at all! St. Patrick’s Day is for everyone. The holiday has become a global celebration of Irish culture and heritage, and Canada’s multicultural society embraces it as an opportunity for fun and community gathering.