The history of St. Patrick’s Day can be traced as far back as the early 17th century when it was a recognized feast by the Catholic Church. Now, both a cultural and religious celebration, the day is observed with plenty of great food and comradery, parades, fun family activities, and of course, plenty of green beer. And the joy and exuberance with which St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Ireland has taken on an entirely broader appeal than was originally planned, but nevertheless, it’s jubilant and contagious, and it’s found its way to Texas! A Texas St. Patrick’s Day is the Lone Star State’s version of that same joyous and exciting experience, and you can get in on the celebration at one of these fine festivities!
Things to Do
Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Texas: Going Green in the Lone Star State
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St. Patrick’s Day Austin
Photo: Facebook/St. Patrick’s Day Austin
On the St. Patrick’s Day Austin website, the Celtic Cultural Center of Texas is quoted as saying, “The St. Patrick’s Day Austin is the best place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! A commitment to authentic Irish culture. No green beer (just the finest Irish imports in the color the Irish gods intended) and no leprechauns! Come for fierce Irish traditions and fun for the whole family!” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Visit their website for details on what’s taking place in Austin on Friday, March 17th at Pioneer Farms, including fun, food, and festivities.
Murphy’s Street St. Patrick’s Day River Parade Festival
Photo: Facebook/American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association
San Antonio has a heyday with St. Patrick’s Day at the River Walk! The Murphy’s Street St. Patrick’s Day River Parade Festival commences with the dyeing of the River Walk green (transforming it into the River Shannon.) Then from the 17th to the 19th, the area is filled with booths, artisans and so much more to appeal to the whole family. And on the 18th, Murphy’s River Parade takes place along the San Antonio River with decorated floats, bagpipes and drummers, and Irish step dancers. Murphy’s Irish Stout beer and green beer will be sold at the Arneson River Theatre together with Irish and other ethnic foods. And a new interactive feature for kids will be the free “Passport to Ireland” adventure.
Shamrock St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Photo: Facebook/Wheeler County Historical Commission
The annual Shamrock, Texas’ St. Patrick’s Day Festival is a two-day event featuring music, parades, a motorcycle rally, craft show, a beauty pageant, carnival and much more. The town that took its name from a suggestion of an Irish immigrant in the 1800s starts off its weekend of festivities with the Kickoff Banquet, Carnival, and Miss Irish Rose Debut. Saturday starts with a 5k Run, Donegal Beard Contest, carnival, chili cook-off, the St Patrick’s Parade, crowning of the Miss Irish Rose, and the “Big Dance” Saturday night. Visit their website for full details and get out and enjoy the family fun!
