Cincinnati’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade began in 1967 as a small Friday afternoon procession. Today, it has grown into one of the city’s most spirited traditions, complete with Irish dancers, marching bands, floats, and a sea of green lining the streets.
But in true Cincinnati fashion, the parade isn’t the end of the rainbow. From riverfront parties to quirky hometown traditions, here’s how Cincy celebrates beyond the parade route each year.
Riverfront Celebrations at The Banks
After the parade wraps, the energy shifts to The Banks, where bars and venues host lively St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Spots like The Stretch and Killer Queen lean all the way in with LepreCON featuring:
- Live music
- Holiday-themed drink specials
- DJs and high-energy crowds
- All-day festivities along the river
It’s one of the most popular post-parade gathering places downtown.
Catch a Game in Green
St. Patrick’s Day weekend often lines up with hockey season, making a Cincinnati Cyclones game a fun and slightly unexpected way to celebrate.
Whether it’s themed jerseys, festive arena vibes, or just an excuse to keep the party going, cheering on the home team adds a uniquely Cincinnati twist to the holiday.
Celebrate Irish Heritage in the East End
For those who want to connect with the roots of the holiday, the Irish Heritage Center of Greater Cincinnati in the East End traditionally hosts celebrations centered around Irish culture.
Expect to see:
- Traditional Irish music
- Dance performances
- Cultural programming
- Family-friendly activities
It’s a meaningful way to balance the fun with history and heritage.
Pub Crawls & Neighborhood Hotspots
Across Over-the-Rhine, Downtown, and Covington, neighborhood pubs become gathering spaces for friends old and new.
One longtime favorite is Molly Malone’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, where live music, Irish fare, and festive crowds create a true block-party atmosphere.
Throughout the city, you’ll also find:
- Organized pub crawls
- Irish-inspired menus
- Green beer and themed cocktails
- Live bands and DJs
Each neighborhood brings its own personality to the celebration.
Fountain Square Festivities
At Fountain Square, seasonal pop-ups like Winterhaus transform into St. Patrick’s Day hubs with:
- Live music
- Performers and entertainers
- Holiday drink specials
- A central, easy-to-meet-up atmosphere
It’s a great gathering point before heading out to explore the rest of downtown.
Luck of the Levee
Across the river at Newport on the Levee, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations typically include Irish dance performances, live music, and festive food and drink specials.
With skyline views and riverfront energy, it’s an easy way to extend the celebration beyond downtown Cincinnati.
Unique Cincy Traditions
Cincinnati also has a few traditions that feel distinctly local.
“Stealing” the Statue – Mt. Adams
As a playful kickoff to the season, parade organizers humorously “steal” a statue of St. Patrick from Holy Cross–Immaculata Church in Mt. Adams.
The statue remains in hiding until it leads the official parade. It’s a lighthearted tradition that adds a little mystery and a lot of hometown charm.
The 0.1K “O’dora” Dash – Hamilton
In nearby Hamilton, the 0.1K O’dora Dash proves that not all races are created equal.
Participants run just one-tenth of a kilometer, and the winner is determined by who spills the least amount of their beverage. Costumes are encouraged, and the event supports local community foundations. It’s competitive, but in the most Cincinnati way possible.
Go the “Green Way”
Each March, Skyline Chili embraces the holiday with its famous “Green Way,” featuring green-dyed noodles topped with its classic chili and shredded cheese.
It’s quirky. It’s nostalgic. It’s very Cincinnati.
However You Celebrate…
Whether you stick to the parade, hop between pubs, catch a hockey game, or order a Green Way, St. Patrick’s Day in Cincinnati is more than a single event.
It’s neighborhood pride. It’s riverfront views. It’s culture, tradition, and a whole lot of community spirit.
For more festivities and events in the Greater Cincinnati area, be sure to check out our March Local Events guide.
