Every year on March 17th, people across the globe come together to celebrate Irish culture. This almost always means live music and dancing, traditional Irish meals and libations, and a seemingly endless supply of green. If you have never had the pleasure of experiencing St. Patrick’s Day in Seattle, you’re in for a treat. Our city does St. Patrick’s Day exceptionally well. Here are some of our top picks for where to celebrate in Seattle.
Mulleady’s Pub
At Mulleady’s Pub, you won’t find any of the green beer that will be floating around the rest of the city. This experience promises something much more authentic, with a traditional Irish sit-down dinner consisting of 5 delicious courses. They sell out every year, without fail, so don’t wait. If you plan to dine at Mulleady’s for St. Patrick’s Day this year, give them a call at (206) 283-8843 and make your reservations now.
Kells Irish Festival
Each year, hundreds of people flock to Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub for their annual Kells Irish Festival. You can safely say that this is one of the most popular Irish establishments in town, and on St. Patrick’s Day, it is absolutely packed. If you’re looking for a high-energy St. Pat’s celebration, Kells is it. The festival tent will go up on Thursday, March 17th, and it will remain through the weekend. There will be a great mix of Irish bands and local Seattle musicians, traditional Irish dishes, and select beers from the new Portland-based Kells Brew Pub.
Murphy’s Pub
When it opened on March 18, 1981, Murphy’s Pub became Seattle’s first Irish pub. This year, it celebrates its 35th anniversary and a change in ownership, and it continues to be a local favorite. Some would even say that the new management has given the pub’s authenticity a boost, making this an even better setting for a traditional Irish celebration. Similar to the other choices we have listed for you here, the annual bash held by Murphy’s features delicious Irish food, live music, and of course, a mixed selection of Irish and Northwest beers.
FX McRory’s
Although FX McRory’s is not advertised as an Irish establishment, its Irish heritage is extremely well-known throughout Seattle. You won’t find anything listed on the website, but keep an eye on the Facebook page for updates. In years past, there have been Irish food and drink specials for the entire week of St. Patrick’s Day.
Also happening that week is the 32nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dash. This is a 5k race that began as a dash between bars and has grown to be one of the most popular springtime events in our city. It begins at Seattle Center and winds through downtown, filling our streets with people in festive green attire. It’s a lot of fun and supports various Northwest children’s charities.
However you choose to celebrate “the wearing of green”, be sure to get out and enjoy the best of Seattle’s Irish culture. There is so much delicious food to be eaten, and this year’s entertainment lineup is full of can’t-miss events and performances. Have fun, and celebrate responsibly!
