The Conversation
Arts & Entertainment
03/08/2019, 08:46PM EST
Few places go as hard to celebrate St. Patrick's Day as Pittsburgh. The festivities begin with a parade that's considered one of the largest in the country. This year's parade is March 16. It kicks off at 10 a.m. and will feature marching bands and floats. Sheraden native and Irish musician Mike Gallagher will serve as grand marshal, and South Park High School senior Maggie Byrnes will be recognized as "Miss Smiling Irish Eyes" for 2019.
St. Patrick's Day Celebration to Bring Thousands to Pittsburgh
Few places go as hard to celebrate St. Patrick's Day as Pittsburgh. The festivities begin with a parade that's considered one of the largest in the country.
Few places go as hard to celebrate St. Patrick's Day as Pittsburgh. The festivities begin with a parade that's considered one of the largest in the country. This year's parade is March 16. It kicks off at 10 a.m. and will feature marching bands and floats. Sheraden native and Irish musician Mike Gallagher will serve as grand marshal, and South Park High School senior Maggie Byrnes will be recognized as "Miss Smiling Irish Eyes" for 2019.
Marchers will gather outside the Greyhound bus station at Liberty Avenue and 11th Street. From there, the parade will move to Grant Street, then to the Boulevard of the Allies, turning right and heading toward the reviewing stand at Stanwix Street, before finally stopping on Commonwealth Place.
In addition to the parade, a family-friendly event will also be held at Market Square from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for anyone who prefers a more low-key celebration. Irish dancers will provide entertainment and face painting will be available for kids.
The "Irish Fair in the Square" event starts at 2 p.m. is where the adults can let loose. Alcohol (including green beer) will be available for purchase. Street vendors will sell food while bands play live music. Open containers are even allowed in the square area. The party is scheduled to wrap up at 6 p.m.
All this fun comes with some important things to be aware of. Street parking downtown will be heavily restricted. Click here to visit the Parking Authority website for a list of downtown lots and garages and their rates. There will also be bus detours, so check the Port Authority website for bus and T schedules.
