“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, you’re lucky enough!” For reasons unknown, everyone loves the Irish, especially around March 17, when Saint Patrick’s Day takes place. This celebration knows no borders and is held all over the world – and, in some places, it’s pretty spectacular. Take a look at our list of the most Irish cities in the world:
1. Chicago, United States: With such a large Irish community, the celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day is sensational. One of the most interesting events is the “River Dyeing”, in which the river is (literally) dyed green. Just a quick note: the formula is natural and has been proven safe for the environment.
2. Boston, United States: The city holds the second largest Saint Patrick’s parade in the nation, with almost one million visitors each year. Not bad, right? All the celebrations, festivals and parades keep the party going for the whole month!
3. New York, United States: The parade on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue is the busiest in the country, with around two million attendees. Like Chicago and Boston, New York City has a large Irish American community that would not miss this day for the world!
4. Munich, Germany: Raise your tankard! Munich celebrates the day in style: parades, live Irish music and even a dance festival. During those days, trips to Ireland are also organised.
5. Montreal, Canada: The Irish have held special feasts and religious ceremonies on Saint Patrick’s since 1759. The first parade (as we know it) took place in 1824 and was organised by Michael O’Sullivan, a lawyer and member of parliament.
6. Tokyo, Japan: The Japanese capital has been celebrating one of the island’s most popular parades since 1992 – which makes sense, considering the locals’ fascination with Western culture. Omotesando is the venue for the parade.
7. Singapore started celebrating Saint Patrick’s since 1996 and can boast of hosting some of the most crowded festivities in Southeast Asia, with over 3,000 attendees. As tradition demands, everyone dresses in green and celebrates the Irish cultural wealth with music and dance.
How about you? Are you doing anything for Saint Patrick’s this year? If you want to experience the “real deal” in Dublin, don’t miss our insider tips for enjoying the city on a budget. If you’re more adventurous and want to visit one of the above-mentioned destinations, tell us all about it in the comments section below!
What do you think?