☘️ Patricks Day in Portland in 2026: Where Irish Spirit Meets Pacific Northwest Fun
Table of Contents
Patricks Day in Portland in 2026 falls on Tuesday, March 17, and the city is already gearing up to transform into a sea of green. Known for its creative community, love for craft beer, and thriving music scene, Portland offers a truly unique way to celebrate this classic Irish holiday.
Whether you’re donning a kilt and hitting the streets for a pub crawl, dancing to Celtic bands, or hunting shamrocks with your kids in the park, this guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day in Portland.
🎉 Top Events & Festivities for Patricks Day in Portland in 2026
Expect a packed weekend of green-themed events, especially with the holiday landing on a Tuesday—many events will kick off as early as Friday, March 13.
🍀 Portland St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Location: NW Portland, starting on NW 19th Ave
- Highlights: Bagpipers, Irish wolfhounds, dancers, local school bands, Irish flags, and plenty of green!
- Tip: Arrive early for a good spot near Wallace Park. Don’t forget to wear green!
🍻 Shamrock Pub Crawl (March 14–17, 2026)
- Hosted by: Portland Pub Crawl Society
- Where: Pearl District, Old Town, and East Burnside
- Includes: Discounted drinks, themed cocktails, Irish music, free swag, and costume contests.
🎶 St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Kells Irish Pub
- Duration: All weekend through March 17
- Location: Kells locations in Old Town and downtown
- Features: Irish dancers, traditional music, Guinness beer garden, and Irish food tents.
🏃♀️ Shamrock Run Portland 2026
- When: Sunday, March 15
- Where: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
- Races: 5K, 10K, half marathon, and a Leprechaun Lap for kids
- Extras: Costume prizes, finish line beer garden, and finisher medals
🍻 Best Irish Pubs & Bars to Celebrate Patricks Day in Portland
Portland’s Irish pubs go all out for March 17. Here’s where you’ll want to raise a glass:
Must-Visit Pubs:
- Kells Irish Pub – The most iconic Portland St. Patrick’s Day destination.
- Biddy McGraw’s – Divey and authentic with nightly live music and pool tables.
- County Cork Public House – Friendly Northeast neighborhood pub with Irish food and ale.
- Maher’s Pub (Lake Oswego) – A great option for the suburbs with family-friendly activities early in the day.
Drink Highlights:
- Guinness poured with shamrock foam art
- Irish car bombs and Jameson shots
- Green beer and hard cider flights
- Irish coffee with fresh whipped cream
Pro Tip: Many pubs offer cover-free entry before 5 p.m., but expect crowds and long lines later in the evening.
🍴 Where to Eat Irish Food in Portland on Patricks Day
Don’t just drink Irish—taste it too. Many pubs and restaurants serve themed menus in the days leading up to March 17.
Traditional Irish Dishes to Try:
- Corned beef & cabbage – Slow-cooked and tender with mustard or horseradish
- Shepherd’s pie – Savory lamb or beef under creamy mashed potatoes
- Boxty – Irish potato pancake with meat or veggie fillings
- Soda bread – Often served warm with butter or stew
Best Places to Get It:
- Kells – Full Irish menu from noon to night
- Mother’s Bistro – Often offers Irish specials the week of St. Patrick’s
- Alberta Street Pub – Music and food in a cozy setting
- Tabor Tavern – Neighborhood spot with rotating St. Paddy’s specials
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Events for Patricks Day in Portland in 2026
If you’re celebrating with kids or prefer a more laid-back vibe, Portland offers plenty of daytime and family-friendly fun.
Top Picks for Families:
- Oregon Zoo’s Shamrock Safari – Kids follow green clues to learn fun animal facts and win prizes.
- Portland Children’s Museum “Green Day” – Crafts, stories, science activities themed around Ireland and the color green.
- Lents Park Shamrock Hunt – Search for hidden shamrocks and leprechaun hats.
- Multnomah County Library Events – Storytime and Irish folklore readings.
Tips for Parents:
- Check event websites ahead for time slots and RSVPs
- Dress kids in bright green layers for photos and easy visibility
- Bring reusable water bottles and snacks for outdoor events
🎭 Irish Culture, Music & Arts in Portland on Patricks Day
Portland’s rich arts scene shines during Irish heritage month. Don’t miss these performances and exhibits:
- Irish Dance Performances – Look for shows by Yeates Academy of Irish Dance and Moylan School of Irish Dance
- Live Celtic Music – Enjoy fiddle bands and acoustic Irish sets at The Alberta Rose Theatre, McMenamins Kennedy School, or The Old Church Concert Hall
- Irish History Exhibit – Visit the Oregon Historical Society for a temporary exhibit on Irish immigration to Oregon (check ahead for 2026 listings)
- Irish Film Screening – Watch a romantic or dramatic Irish film at Cinema 21 or Hollywood Theatre
🌈 Shopping & Souvenirs: Where to Buy Irish Gifts in Portland
Support local shops while finding festive items for yourself or others.
Great Places to Shop:
- Sheridan Fruit Co. – Seasonal meats and traditional Irish groceries
- Oblation Papers & Press – Shamrock-themed cards and paper goods
- MadeHere PDX – Green Portland-branded gear, perfect for selfies and souvenirs
- Celtic Corner at Saturday Market – Jewelry, Celtic knots, and artisan goods
📸 Most Instagram-Worthy Spots for Patricks Day Photos in Portland
Capture festive memories at these picturesque local spots:
- White Stag “Portland Oregon” Sign – Best taken from the Burnside Bridge
- Pioneer Courthouse Square with Irish flags
- Lan Su Chinese Garden lit up in early spring bloom
- Forest Park trails decked with DIY green decorations
- St. Johns Bridge from Cathedral Park – wear green for a nature-meets-city backdrop
❓ FAQ: Patricks Day in Portland in 2026
Q: What day is Patricks Day in 2026?
A: It falls on Tuesday, March 17, making the weekend of March 14–16 the biggest celebration window.
Q: Where is the main parade in Portland held?
A: The parade usually takes place in NW Portland, running from NW 19th Avenue to Wallace Park.
Q: Can I attend events if I don’t drink alcohol?
A: Absolutely! Many events are family-friendly, alcohol-optional, or focused on music, dancing, or food.
Q: Are pets allowed at events?
A: Some parades and parks allow leashed pets, and some pet-friendly pubs even host St. Pawtrick’s Day celebrations!
Q: Is the Shamrock Run kid-friendly?
A: Yes! It includes the Leprechaun Lap, a short fun run for children, along with family zones and medals.
Q: What’s the best way to get around on St. Patrick’s Day?
A: Use TriMet, rideshare apps, or plan to walk. Many streets will be closed near events, and parking fills up quickly.