While New Orleans is well known for its French and Spanish heritage, it also has some of the largest St. Patrick’s Day events in the country. During the days before and after St. Patrick’s Day 2015, there are celebrations, parades and parties. But, what else would you expect in the Crescent City? Just like any other big event that takes place in New Orleans, you should expect crowds throughout the city and also in nearby Metairie, which is also known for having spectacular St. Patrick’s Day parades.
When and Where are the St. Patrick’s Day Events in New Orleans?
Starting on Friday, March 13th in the French Quarter, riders in carriages and marching groups can be found at the annual Molly’s at the Market Irish Parade starting at 6:00 p.m. You’ll find residents as well as tourists here, given its location, and it’s an excellent way to kick off the weekend.
On Saturday, March 14th, the largest parade will be held in the Irish Channel at 1:00 p.m. starting at the corner of Felicity and Magazine Streets. This parade is known for its floats with riders throwing not only beads, but cabbages, carrots, onions and anything you can think of to make a corned beef stew. I’ve even seen someone catch a stew pot before! The parade concludes around Jackson Street and many people will head over to Parasol’s Block Party Celebration that starts at 10:00a.m., and lasts until the evening. For the parade route, click here.
Be Sure to Look for me, I’ll be walking in the Irish Channel Parade!
Also on Saturday at 6:00 p.m., you can catch the Italian-American St. Joseph’s Parade in the French Quarter. The parade kicks off at the intersection of Convention Center Blvd & Girod Street in the CBD. You can expect floats, marching bands and a lot of Italian Club men.
On Sunday, March 15th, the party continues in Metairie down Metairie Road. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Metairie kicks off at noon right in front of Rummel High School on Severn Avenue and goes down Severn to Metairie Road all the way to the Orleans Parish line. For the parade route, click here.
Tuesday, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day. Not only can you expect to head back to Parasol’s for their annual block party during the day on 3rd and Magazine Streets, but you can also head downtown to the Bywater to see the Downtown Irish Club Parade at 6:00p. It starts on the corner of Burgundy & Piety and slithers around to the Quarter. You can see the parade route here.
The fun doesn’t stop there! The next weekend, on Sunday, March 22nd, you can head back to Metairie for the annual Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade at noon. This one rolls down Veterans Memorial Highway and is a great family-friend parade as well. You can see the parade route here.
What to Expect at St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in New Orleans
You should expect a lot of people. And, because the weather is typically nice around this time of year, you’re going to either see a lot of people walking…or you will be the one walking. Just like every other holiday in New Orleans, you’ll want to ensure that you know the rules and laws of the city to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
This is a friendly reminder that you still must be 21 years old to legally drink in the state of Louisiana and in New Orleans and Metairie. You may receive a Minor in Possession if you are caught underage drinking. If you are of age, and you do choose to walk or attend the parades or block parties, you are legally allowed to drink alcohol on public property. With that said, you should always drink out of aluminum or plastic go-cups. You can be cited if you are caught drinking out of a glass bottle.
Driving should strictly be left to designated sober drivers only. If everyone in your party plans to drink alcohol while out and about, make sure you have the phone numbers for cabs or you are hooked up with Uber on your phone. You can also take the Streetcar and walk the rest of the way, which in any direction shouldn’t be too far to the parties and parades.
Obey Law Enforcement, Remember Your Rights & Call Crescent City Law
If you do see law enforcement while you are celebrating, make sure to respect their authority and obey anything they tell you. The city is left with few police officers so the more we can do to cooperate with them, the more time they have to protect us from real crime. With that said, try not to over-consume. You do not want to be arrested in New Orleans for public intoxication or lewd conduct, as you may end up having to spend some time in Central Lockup. If you do find yourself in trouble with the law, remember your rights and only provide your name and address if asked. You can use your phone call to phone an experienced criminal defense lawyer, such as Crescent City Law. We understand that sometimes the partying gets the best of us and Crescent City Law has extensive experience with clients who have made simple mistakes while celebrating a holiday. You can call us at (504) 264-9492 or e-mail us here. We are available nights and weekends for your convenience. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
