St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th transforms Las Vegas into a sea of green, with Irish spirit infusing every corner of the city. As someone who has lived here for decades, I can tell you that this cultural celebration has grown in scale and enthusiasm. From Fremont Street to the Strip, Las Vegas wholeheartedly embraces St. Patrick’s Day with pub crawls, live entertainment, special hotel packages, and much more. Whether you’re Irish or simply Irish for the day, St. Patrick’s Day in Vegas is an experience you won’t want to miss.
History and Significance of St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day, originally a religious feast day, commemorates the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, and over the years, his feast day became a cultural and national celebration in Ireland and beyond. The holiday is now recognized globally, especially in cities with large Irish-American communities, as a time to celebrate Irish culture with parades, wearing green, and enjoying traditional Irish food and drink.
In Las Vegas, St. Patrick’s Day has grown from a small, localized event to a city-wide celebration that draws in thousands of visitors each year.
St. Patrick’s Day in Modern Las Vegas
Las Vegas, with its unique flair for larger-than-life celebrations, has embraced the holiday in a way that only this city can. The entire town, from its iconic casinos to local bars and restaurants, becomes part of the celebration. Here’s how the city comes alive:
- Parades, parties, and pub crawls dominate the city, drawing both locals and visitors.
- Irish traditions are honored with a Vegas twist, including green fountains, illuminated landmarks, and themed street parties.
- Many casinos offer special promotions and games to commemorate the day, such as slot tournaments with Irish themes and lucky giveaways.
Iconic Celebrations Across Las Vegas
Las Vegas hosts a variety of festivities that make St. Patrick’s Day one of the city’s most lively celebrations. Whether you prefer the electric atmosphere of The Strip or the more intimate, community-based parties of Downtown Las Vegas, you’ll find plenty to do on St. Patrick’s Day.
Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience, located in Downtown Las Vegas, is one of the most iconic areas to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Known for its lively atmosphere, this pedestrian mall is the heart of downtown and hosts some of the city’s most festive events.
Events and Entertainment at Fremont Street:
- Live Bands: Local and international bands bring the sounds of Ireland to life, blending traditional Irish folk music with contemporary rock and pop. The free concerts take place on various stages, so you can hop between performances and find the music that suits your vibe.
- Viva Vision Light Shows: The massive Viva Vision canopy, one of Fremont Street’s most recognizable features, comes alive with green-themed light shows throughout the night. The LED screen covers the entire street, offering a synchronized light-and-sound spectacle that amplifies the festive mood.
- Street Performers: Street artists, magicians, and costumed entertainers roam the streets, ensuring there’s never a dull moment as you stroll through the area. You might even run into performers dressed as leprechauns or other Irish-themed characters, adding to the playful atmosphere.
- Drink Specials and Irish Food: Nearly every bar on Fremont Street offers special drink deals for St. Patrick’s Day, including green beer, Irish whiskey cocktails, and shots of Baileys. You’ll also find food vendors offering Irish staples like corned beef sandwiches and shepherd’s pie.
The Strip Turns Green
Las Vegas Boulevard, better known as The Strip, is home to some of the most vibrant St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the city. The major hotels and casinos along The Strip go all-out, lighting up their iconic landmarks in green and hosting festive events.
Highlights on The Strip:
- Bellagio’s Green Fountains: One of Las Vegas’s most iconic attractions, the Bellagio fountains, are dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day. The fountain shows are synchronized with Irish music throughout the evening, adding a festive flair to an already stunning display. If you’re lucky, you might catch a performance to the tune of “Danny Boy.”
- Luxor’s Green Pyramid and Beam: The Luxor Hotel’s famous pyramid and powerful light beam turn green on St. Patrick’s Day, making this already impressive architectural marvel a striking part of the celebration.
- The LINQ Promenade Pub Crawl: The LINQ is one of the best places to start a pub crawl on The Strip. Bars along this outdoor promenade offer special St. Patrick’s Day cocktails, beer, and festive décor. You’ll find plenty of Irish-themed pop-up bars and street vendors, so keep an eye out for fun, limited-time offerings.
Top St. Patrick’s Day Events in Las Vegas
Las Vegas offers an array of events to suit every type of St. Patrick’s Day celebration, from massive pub crawls to smaller, family-friendly festivals. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular events you won’t want to miss.
Pub Crawls
Participating in an Irish-themed pub crawl is one of the most popular ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas. Pub crawls are a Vegas staple, allowing you to hop from bar to bar while enjoying special drinks and lively crowds.
Notable Pub Crawls:
Celtic Feis at New York-New York Hotel & Casino:
One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day events on The Strip, Celtic Feis is a multi-day celebration that culminates on March 17th. The festival includes a traditional Irish parade, complete with bagpipers and Irish dancers, as well as a massive pub crawl across New York-New York’s Irish-themed venues.
Highlights:
- Guinness and Jameson specials
- Live performances by Irish bands
- Traditional Irish dancers and entertainment
St. Patrick’s Day Fremont Crawl:
Known for its casual vibe, the Fremont Crawl is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The crawl takes you through several of Fremont Street’s best bars, including the Downtown Cocktail Room, Hennessey’s Tavern, and Park on Fremont.
Highlights:
- Drink specials at participating bars
- Free entry to live concerts
- Green-themed cocktails and Irish stouts
O’Shea’s St. Patrick’s Day Block Party at The LINQ:
O’Shea’s Block Party at The LINQ is the place to be if you’re looking for a lively, rowdy celebration. This event includes beer pong, live music, and plenty of party games.
Highlights:
- Free beer pong tournaments
- Shots of Jameson at discounted prices
- Irish street performers and DJ sets
Parades and Festivals
Las Vegas isn’t just about pub crawls; there are also family-friendly parades and outdoor festivals to enjoy. These events offer a more laid-back but equally fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
Must-See Events:
Henderson St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival:
Held annually in nearby Henderson, this parade is one of the largest in Southern Nevada. The festival spans several days and includes carnival rides, live music, Irish food, and family-friendly activities.
Parade Highlights:
- Irish dancers, floats, and marching bands
- Classic cars and costumed characters
- A celebration of Irish heritage with community involvement
Festival Features:
- Carnival rides for kids
- Artisan booths with local crafts
- Irish food vendors selling corned beef, colcannon, and soda bread
Las Vegas Irish Pubs Block Party:
This event features several local Irish pubs coming together for an all-day outdoor festival. The block party often takes place at pubs like McMullan’s and Hennessey’s Tavern, where you can expect traditional Irish music, dancing, and plenty of pints.
Highlights:
- Local Irish bands performing live
- Traditional Irish dance performances
- Family-friendly atmosphere with games and activities for all ages
Dining and Drinking for St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas
What would St. Patrick’s Day be without indulging in some hearty Irish fare and plenty of drinks? Las Vegas offers no shortage of options when it comes to Irish pubs, bars, and restaurants serving up authentic dishes and celebratory drinks.
Best Irish Pubs in Las Vegas
Nine Fine Irishmen at New York-New York Hotel & Casino
Ambiance:
Nine Fine Irishmen is one of the most authentic Irish pubs on The Strip. With its handcrafted interior imported directly from Ireland, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported straight to Dublin. The atmosphere is lively, especially during St. Patrick’s Day when the pub is packed with revelers.
Menu Highlights:
- Traditional Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips
- Seasonal specialties such as corned beef and cabbage
- Specialty desserts like Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake
Drinks:
- Guinness on tap
- Irish whiskeys, including Jameson, Tullamore D.E.W., and Redbreast
- Irish coffee made with fresh cream and smooth Irish whiskey
McMullan’s Irish Pub
Ambiance:
Located just off The Strip, McMullan’s is a beloved local favorite with a warm, traditional Irish pub feel. During St. Patrick’s Day, the pub gets decked out in green, and hosts live music and dance performances. It’s a great place to escape the tourist crowd and enjoy a more authentic Irish celebration.
Menu Highlights:
- Full Irish breakfast with black pudding, sausage, and fried eggs
- Steak and Guinness pie, made with tender beef slow-cooked in Guinness stout
- Bangers and mash with house-made sausages and onion gravy
Drinks:
- Classic Irish beers like Harp, Smithwick’s, and Guinness
- Specialty cocktails such as Irish Mules and Shamrock Punch
- A large selection of Irish whiskeys and liqueurs
Rí Rá Irish Pub at Mandalay Bay
Ambiance:
Rí Rá is another popular spot for both locals and tourists. This pub is designed to resemble a traditional Irish pub, with wooden floors, cozy corners, and a welcoming bar. For St. Patrick’s Day, Rí Rá hosts live music from Irish bands and offers a special holiday menu.
Menu Highlights:
- Guinness beef stew served with warm soda bread
- Irish lamb shank, slow-cooked with potatoes and root vegetables
- Traditional Irish boxty dishes, including a savory potato pancake filled with meat or vegetables
Drinks:
- Extensive selection of Irish and European beers, including a wide variety of stouts and ales
- Irish whiskey flights for those who want to sample a variety of Ireland’s finest spirits
- Signature cocktails such as the Irish Mule and Shamrock Sour
Hotels for St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas
Choosing the right hotel for visitors coming to Las Vegas to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is key to fully immersing yourself in the festivities. Many hotels offer special deals and packages for the holiday, complete with green-themed events and priority access to the best parties.
Hotels on The Strip
New York-New York Hotel & Casino
- Why It’s Great: This hotel is home to the famous Celtic Feis celebration, making it the epicenter of St. Patrick’s Day festivities on The Strip. With Nine Fine Irishmen, an authentic Irish pub, right inside, you won’t need to leave the premises to enjoy the holiday.
- Room Packages: New York-New York often offers special St. Patrick’s Day room deals, including discounted rates, exclusive access to Celtic Feis events, and drink vouchers for Nine Fine Irishmen or other bars in the casino.
- Why It’s Great: The LINQ is the perfect location for partygoers, as it’s located right next to O’Shea’s Block Party, one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day events in Las Vegas. Staying at The LINQ means you’re within walking distance of some of the best Irish bars and party spots on The Strip.
- Room Packages: Special offers for the holiday often include discounted room rates and priority access to St. Patrick’s Day events at The LINQ Promenade, such as the famous pub crawl and street performances.
- Why It’s Great: The Bellagio offers a refined but festive atmosphere for those seeking a more luxurious St. Patrick’s Day experience. The Bellagio’s fountains, lit up in green for the occasion, provide a stunning backdrop for holiday photos.
- Room Packages: While the Bellagio’s room deals tend to be higher-end, you might find special packages during St. Patrick’s Day that include dinner reservations at one of their world-class restaurants and VIP seating for the fountain shows.
Downtown Hotels
- Why It’s Great: Situated on Fremont Street, the Golden Nugget is right in the heart of the St. Patrick’s Day action. The hotel is steps away from all the Fremont Street Experience events, making it easy to participate in the festivities.
- Room Packages: The Golden Nugget typically offers promotions around St. Patrick’s Day, including discounted rooms and complimentary access to live music and special events happening on Fremont Street.
- Why It’s Great: Known for its modern style and boutique feel, the Downtown Grand is a popular choice for visitors looking to stay close to Fremont Street without the hustle and bustle. It’s just a short walk from the heart of the Fremont Street Experience but offers a quieter retreat when you’re ready to relax.
- Room Packages: Expect to find deals that include drink vouchers for the hotel’s bars or discounted rates for those booking multiple nights during the holiday.
Entertainment for St. Patrick’s Day
Las Vegas offers more than just pub crawls and parades on St. Patrick’s Day. From live music to exciting performances, the city provides a variety of entertainment options for those looking to celebrate.
Live Music and Performances
One of the hallmarks of St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas is the abundance of live music, particularly Irish-inspired performances. Many venues across the city feature both traditional Irish bands and contemporary acts that bring a fresh twist to the holiday.
Celtic Bands and Irish Dancers
- Where: New York-New York Hotel & Casino, McMullan’s Irish Pub, Fremont Street Experience.
- What to Expect: Lively performances featuring bagpipes, fiddles, and drums transport you to the heart of Ireland. Traditional Irish dancers, often dressed in colorful costumes, add to the festive atmosphere by performing intricate step dances.
Pro Tip: For a truly authentic St. Patrick’s Day experience, be sure to catch a performance of “Riverdance” or an Irish jig on Fremont Street.
Bagpipers and Street Performers
- Where: O’Shea’s Block Party, Fremont Street, and select Irish pubs throughout the city.
- What to Expect: Throughout the day, you’ll encounter roving bagpipers who entertain crowds with their haunting melodies. Street performers, some dressed as leprechauns or donning green costumes, add to the celebratory vibe.
Pro Tip: For the best bagpiper performances, head to O’Shea’s Block Party at The LINQ or catch one of the roving performers on Fremont Street.
Comedy Shows
If you’re looking for some laughs during St. Patrick’s Day, Las Vegas is home to a wide range of comedy clubs that put on special performances for the holiday. Many of the shows feature Irish or St. Patrick’s Day-themed humor, making them a fun way to cap off your night.
Notable Comedy Venues:
- Laugh Factory at Tropicana Las Vegas: One of the most popular comedy clubs in the city, the Laugh Factory frequently hosts well-known comedians. On St. Patrick’s Day, expect themed performances and crowd interaction.
- Comedy Cellar at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino: For those looking to catch up-and-coming comedians alongside established acts, the Comedy Cellar is a top choice. Their St. Patrick’s Day shows will feature Irish-inspired jokes and plenty of green décor.
- Delirious Comedy Club at Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino: Located in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, Delirious Comedy Club offers intimate shows focusing on audience interaction. Their holiday performances are often themed to match the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day Tips for Visitors
Visiting Las Vegas for St. Patrick’s Day can be a thrilling yet overwhelming experience. The city’s energy is unmatched, but planning ahead is essential to make the most of your time. Here are some insider tips from a long-time resident to help you navigate the festivities.
Insider Tips for Celebrating in Vegas
- Arrive Early: On St. Patrick’s Day, The Strip and Fremont Street can get incredibly crowded. If you plan to attend a specific event or parade, aim to arrive a few hours early to secure a good spot.
- Wear Green: This might seem obvious, but wearing green is an essential part of the St. Patrick’s Day tradition. Not only will you blend in with the crowds, but some bars even offer discounts on drinks for those who dress in festive green attire.
- Hydrate: Walking, dancing, and drinking can dehydrate you, especially under the bright lights of Las Vegas. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Public Transportation: Parking on The Strip and Downtown Las Vegas can be challenging during big events like St. Patrick’s Day. Consider using public transportation, rideshare services, or the Las Vegas Monorail to get around without the hassle of finding parking.
Planning Your Day in Las Vegas
- Morning: Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day with a hearty Irish breakfast at McMullan’s Irish Pub or Nine Fine Irishmen. Both pubs offer a full Irish breakfast with traditional dishes like black pudding, eggs, and rashers.
- Afternoon: After breakfast, head to Fremont Street or The LINQ Promenade for live music, street performances, and drink specials. If you’re feeling festive, join one of the many pub crawls taking place throughout the afternoon.
- Evening: The night is when Las Vegas truly comes alive. Make your way to The Strip to catch the Bellagio’s green fountains or Luxor’s illuminated green pyramid. Cap off your night by joining the massive block party at O’Shea’s or catching a live concert on Fremont Street.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Like a Local
St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas is a unique and vibrant celebration, blending the city’s over-the-top entertainment with Irish traditions. Whether you’re enjoying a pint at an authentic Irish pub, dancing to Celtic music under the Viva Vision canopy, or marveling at the green-lit fountains of Bellagio, there’s no shortage of fun and excitement.
For visitors planning a trip to Las Vegas for St. Patrick’s Day, be sure to book your accommodations early, dress in your best green attire, and prepare for an unforgettable day (and night) of festivities. Las Vegas offers a one-of-a-kind St. Patrick’s Day experience that will leave you counting down the days until next year’s celebration.
