Here’s Where to Eat and Drink on St. Patrick’s Day in Philadelphia

McGillin’s on St. Patrick’s Day / Photo courtesy of McGillin’s Olde Ale House

This year, Philly’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is set for Sunday, March 10th, which is a week before the actual holiday on March 17. You’ve got seven days to party. Whether you want to watch the parade, dig into corned beef and cabbage, or are simply looking for an excuse to get your green drink on, these restaurants and bars will ensure it’s your lucky day.

McGillin’s Old Ale House, Midtown Village
McGillin’s is kind of a whole thing because it’s so freaking old and it’s also very fun. The 1860 tavern gets all gussied up with green lights, green garland, green beer and more green stuff, for St. Patrick’s. Expect Irish stouts, themed cocktails, bangers and mash, Irish lamb stew, corned beef and other themed foods starting March 1. It’s open from 10 a.m until 2 a.m. on the big day. 1310 Drury Street

Bridget Foy’s, Queen Village
Bridget Foy’s will be decked out in green with food and drink specials all week starting on parade day and running through the 17th. On the menu: Guinness beef stew, corned beef and cabbage, Irish apple cake, Irish potatoes, and Bassett”s Irish coffee ice cream. From the bar: a special Jameson Manhattan, Irish whiskey flights, Guinness stout, Irish red ale, and even a zero proof Guinness. Follow their social media for updates on live music throughout the week. 200 South Street

Fadó Irish Pub, Center City
It’s cheesy, yes. But St. Patrick’s Day isn’t exactly about subtlety. Head here on Saturday, March 9th, for “St. Practice Day,” during which they’ll be serving brunch starting at 7:30 a.m. and showing soccer all day. On the 10th, there’s a St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party starting at 9 a.m. with live music and a DJ. On the real holiday, they’ll open at 8 a.m. with live music during the day, a DJ for late night, and big beers all day. Bring cash for various cover charges (up to $20) depending on what time you arrive. 1500 Locust Street

Cawley’s Irish Pub, Upper Darby
Delco is a hotbed of Irish pride, and Cawley’s is an actually good Irish pub that serves great ham and cabbage every Tuesday. They’ll offer it as a special on St. Patrick’s Day as well — if you’re looking for a more low-key but still delicious way to celebrate. 7919 West Chester Pike

Tír Na nÓg, Center City
Located close to where the parade will start on Sunday, Tir Na Nog is a great place to grab brunch starting at 9 a.m. and enjoy the festivities. They’ll also have live music pumping during the parade and on the actual holiday. 1600 Arch Street

Fergie’s, Midtown Village
Fergie’s is Philadelphia’s favorite Irish pub, and though you never need an excuse to go there, St. Patrick’s is certainly a helpful reminder that it’s always a good time. They usually host live music on the big day, and it’s sure to get pleasantly rowdy. 1214 Sansom Street

Finn McCool’s, Midtown Village
Look, there aren’t a lot of other holidays where the main activity is eating, drinking, and wearing as many green things as possible, so we appreciate that Finn McCool’s is leaning with Green Tea Shots (a green-tinged combo of whiskey, peach schnapps, and sour mix). 118 S 12th Street

Garage Passyunk, East Passyunk
It’s hardly an Irish bar, but the Garage is always a good time, which is all that really matters here. Go for $7 pickleback shots, $6 Guinness cans, and $7 shots of Jameson green tea. 1231 E Passyunk Avenue

Xfinity Live, South Philly
While we’re recommending big, messy parties, Xfinity Live does it up the day before the big day. On March 16th, Shamrocks and Shenanigans, starts early (noon) and goes until closing with drink specials, green beer, giveaways, and all of the entertainment you’ve come to expect at this always rocking venue. 1100 Pattison Avenue

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