Utah’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: A Green and Orange Show of Pride
Despite being one of the smallest Irish communities in the United States, Utahans with Irish heritage make a big impact during St. Patrick’s Day. With only 5.9% of residents claiming Irish descent, the state still manages to put on vibrant celebrations that bring together locals and visitors alike. From parades to themed events, the spirit of Ireland shines bright across Utah.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Siamsa
One of the highlights of the season is Salt Lake City’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, which takes place on Saturday, March 14, starting at 11 a.m. The parade route begins at the intersection of 600 West and 200 South, then travels east along 200 South to Rio Grande Street. It continues north on Rio Grande through The Gateway shopping center, ending at 50 North.
The Hibernian Society of Utah, the organizers of the event, has chosen this year’s theme as “A Celtic Odyssey,” celebrating the journey of Irish immigrants and the cultural exchange between Ireland and the U.S. The parade will be followed by the siamsa, an annual Celtic festival held in Olympic Plaza until 5 p.m. This event features food, drinks, vendor booths, and live entertainment from Irish bands and dancers.
Admission to the parade and siamsa is free, but there are charges for food and drink. Alcohol must remain within the plaza’s perimeter. For more details, visit IrishInUtah.com.
In addition to Salt Lake City, other towns like Price also host their own St. Patrick’s Day parades. The 44th annual St. Pat’s parade in Price starts at noon on Main Street and is free for all to attend or participate.
Desserts for the Holiday
For those with a sweet tooth, several local dessert shops offer St. Patrick’s Day-themed treats:
- Park City Dessertsoffers matcha and Bailey’s panna cotta.
- Pinkbox Doughnutsserves up unique flavors such as the “Pot O’ Gold” (blue frosting with gold sprinkles), the “Lucky Charm Bar” (green-frosted bar with cereal), and the “Irish Unicorn” (pink velvet cake topped with a unicorn).
Green Beer and Beyond
Salt Lake City’sPiper Downis known for its extravagant St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The pub has events planned throughout the week leading up to March 17:
- Friday, March 13: “Countdown to St. Patrick’s Day” with live music from Celtic punk band Murphy and the Giant.
- Saturday, March 14: St. Practice Day party featuring multiple acts including Folk Hogan, Sean Baker’s Recycled Stardust, and Heathen Highlanders.
- Tuesday, March 17: St. Patrick’s Day itself, with food and drink specials, live music, and a lineup of performers.
Other bars and restaurants around Utah are also getting into the spirit:
- Alpine Distilling Social Aid & Pleasure Cluboffers a signature “Negreeni” made with green liqueur.
- Big Willie’s and Willie’s Loungewill have bagpipers and an Irish-themed menu.
- Escala Provisions Companyserves corned beef hash, a corned beef Reuben, and bangers and mash.
- Flanagan’s on Mainfeatures green beer, traditional Irish fare, and live music.
- Flanker Kitchen + Sporting Clubhas drink specials and Irish-inspired dishes.
- Lucky 13celebrates with seven days of food and drink specials, including live bagpipes.
- Mountain West Ciderhosts its 4th West Fest on March 14, featuring live music and food.
- Owl Barat Sundance Mountain Resort offers drink specials and live music.
- Prohibitionin Murray features a burlesque show and a weekly Bluesday event.
