St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival

Join us for the 44th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Family Festival in Balboa Park at Sixth and Laurel. This year’s parade theme, “Here, There, Irish Culture Everywhere” celebrates the global presence and timeless joy of Irish culture — from the green hills of Ireland to the sunny streets of San Diego and beyond. Whether you’re Irish by blood or simply Irish at heart, you’re invited to experience the music, dance, and stories that connect us all in our San Diego community.
The parade will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at Fifth and Laurel, progress north to Upas St., then south to Sixth Avenue where the festival is located. The parade is free to attend and will have nearly 100 entries of Irish organizations, honorees, fire and police entries, horses, clowns, marching bands, and more.
The family festival opens at 9:30 and will run all day until 6 pm. There will be two entertainment stages, food, beer and wine, a vendor area, and a kids zone with fun things to do all day.
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Main Festival Stage lineup:
·       1 pm Tony Cummins
·       2 pm Skelpin
·       3 pm Ass Pocket Whiskey Fellas
·       4 pm The Shamrockers
·       5 pm The Fooks
The Ashleigh Roach stage will feature Irish cultural entertainment including music and Irish dance from local schools.
Tickets are a low $10 for 21 and up (drinking or not). Children, under 21, and active duty military with i.d. are free. Beer/wine tickets available for 21 and up only – must present i.d. to pick up. (no refunds)
There will be a free shuttle running every 30 minutes from parking areas in Balboa Park to the parade and festival area. Parking will be limited in the neighborhood, ridesharing, carpooling encouraged. See the webpage under Parade/Festival info for map and other information.
Drink responsibly. If you drink, don’t drive – make arrangements for a designated driver or ride home.