St. Patrick’s Day can get pretty crazy in Las Vegas. The Strip quickly fills up with people drinking green beer and getting a little wild. While a bunch of Las Vegas locals still go to this scene, many have found other ways to celebrate the holiday.
Locals and visitors alike enjoy a mix of activities on The Strip and in the more hidden spots of Las Vegas. This can be especially true on major holidays when you want to avoid crowds and go where the locals are.
That is why I put together this list of the best St. Patrick’s Day activities in Las Vegas. It is a mix of well-known events and a few unique experiences you might not have heard of. This list is perfect for anyone looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas like a local. Keep reading for the top 7 St. Patty’s Day ideas to try this year.
#1 Watch The New York, New York Parade
I love going to New York, New York for St. Patrick’s Day. This Las Vegas staple honors Irish traditions and overall is pretty family-friendly. This year they will have traditional Irish music and food at the Celtic Feis celebration that kicks off at 10 a.m.
You can also head to the Brooklyn Bridge for pipe bands, Celtic rock bands, and even DJs if you decide to make a day of it. What I really love about this event is that it will be hosting two parades. One will be on the 17th and one will be on the 18th just in case you miss the first one. For more information, check out MGM Grand’s website.
#2 Hit The Trails For A St. Patrick’s Day Race
Every year, Vegas locals head out to the Hoover Dam for a morning St. Patrick’s Day run. With BBSC Endurance Sports, you can pick from running a half marathon, a 12k, or a 5k. They also have an option for a 1-mile stroll if you want to ease into the holiday weekend. Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll get to take in some amazing scenery along the Historic Railroad Trailhead.
Not able to make it out to the Hoover Dam? There is always the option to take part in a virtual run. The best part about these is that you will still get the medal and bib AND you can sleep in if you want to.
#3 Head To An Irish Pub
One of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is with a refreshing green beer. It makes for a fun photo and helps start the day off right. MGM Grand’s Nine Fine Irishmen is always a fun stop. It has lively Irish folk music and even an in-house Irish dancer! Other great options are the family-run, McMullan’s Irish Pub or O’sheas for a round of beer pong.
Local Tip: Blarney Bar, part of O’Sheas is a great way to quickly get a beer and hang out because of its outdoor bar section. Another thing to note is that the earlier in the day you go, the less crowded it will be. Many locals will start the day out on The Strip or Downtown but will make their way to the Arts District or a friend’s house once the crowds start to roll in.
#4 Sip Locally Brewed Beer
After 12 p.m. most of the Irish pubs on The Strip or Downtown will be pretty packed. If you want to get a little more elbow room to sip your drink, try heading to a local brewery to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas. One of my favorites, Nevada Brew Works will even be serving up green beer so you can embrace the holiday festivities.
Some other great options within walking distance from Nevada Brew Works are Able Baker Brewing, HUDL, and CraftHaus Brewery. Really, any brewery you head to from the Brewery Row bus stop will be a fun place to gather for a cold beer and good times.
#5 Get Outside The City
If you really want to avoid the Las Vegas St. Patrick’s Day crowds, you might consider taking a day trip from Las Vegas. One of my favorite spots to get away to is Lake Las Vegas. The lake itself offers everything you need for a day of fun in the sun. If your group is a bunch of adrenaline seekers, you can try your hand at e-foiling or a water-powered fly board. Maybe you’re a bit more of the laid-back bunch. There are also options to rent kayaks and electric boats for a more low-key day.
Even if you are just looking for some time out in nature, the Lake Las Vegas area is the perfect getaway. You can hike around the Wetlands Trail and even camp out at the Las Vegas Bay Campground. Bring a few things to cook, a handful of beers, and your group of friends and family to celebrate the holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
#6 Try New Food Trucks In Henderson
If you are a foodie like me, you love when the holidays come around because it means you get to try whatever creative new food item is on the menu. A great way to try out multiple spots and find something everyone in the group will like is at Food Truck Mania. This year, the St. Patrick’s Day food truck event will be held in Henderson. It will include great food and delicious drinks in the company of fun-loving locals.
They will have a handful of things to try from fish and chips to Hawaiian street tacos. So even your non-Irish friends will find something they like.
#7 Support Local Businesses In The Arts District
Most importantly, locals support locals. While many Las Vegans still love going out on The Strip or along The Fremont Street Experience, we’ve seen a shift over the past few years. The Las Vegas community is growing and looking for ways to support and celebrate our local businesses. One way to do this is to spend time in the Arts District on St. Patrick’s Day. Most of the shops here are run by people who grew up in town or who moved here and have put down roots.
You can explore the area on your own or book a fun, history-packed tour with Taste Buzz! On the Taste Buzz Las Vegas Arts District Tour, your guide takes you through the up-and-coming neighborhood to their favorite hidden spots. They also give you the history and stories that have helped build this fun-loving community over the years.
How To Have A Fun St. Patrick’s Day In Las Vegas
Whether you decide to party all day or get out of the city with a group of friends, St. Patrick’s Day is a great time to celebrate the history of our Irish-American community. I chose the fun St. Patty’s ideas and activities above because I know that sometimes we want to do something a little different. These unique ideas will help you relax and enjoy the day!
If you are staying for a few more days or if you live locally, you might want a few more ideas for after the holiday. When you take one of Taste Buzz Las Vegas’ tours, your guide points out things to do in the neighborhood. They also give you great advice for exploring the city and can answer any questions about what to do during your visit. If you are like me and want to plan everything ahead of time, no worries. We also have the ultimate foodie blog in Las Vegas with a bunch of free resources to help you plan your time here!
Bonus: Pick Up St. Patty’s Day Treat At Pink Box Doughnuts
Last year, I loved trying Pink Box Doughnuts’ fun St. Patrick’s Day doughnut. Their lucky-charm-coated Long John was creative, cute, and delicious! This year, we have all been patiently waiting to see what they come up with for St. Patty’s Day.
