Out & About: Pints, Parades & Paddy’s Day Spirit

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Long Island does not just celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the bars. Its streets fill with marching bands, bagpipes, dancers, fire departments, local groups and crowds dressed head to toe in green. Whether you are coming off a pub crawl or gearing up for one, the Island’s parades offer the perfect daytime tradition before the nightlife begins. Below are some of the biggest and most energetic marches across Suffolk and Nassau this season.

Huntington St. Patrick’s Day Parade — March 8
The Huntington parade brings an energy that feels more like a full-scale celebration than a simple march. The village fills quickly, and as the procession winds through the center of town, the sound of pipes and drums echoes off the buildings. Crowds stay long after the final group passes, flowing into the restaurants and pubs that keep the lively atmosphere going well into the afternoon.

Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day Parade — March 22
In Patchogue, the parade feels like a community block party from the moment it begins. Families line Main Street, cheering on performers, scouts, school groups and pipe bands. Local storefronts open their doors, and the village has a warm and welcoming charm that makes people stay long after the parade has ended to enjoy food, drinks and Irish themed specials throughout town.

Ronkonkoma St. Patrick’s Day Parade — March 22
The Ronkonkoma parade offers a more classic and nostalgic St. Patrick’s celebration. The route brings together longtime residents, local organizations and traditional marching units that give the day a strong hometown feel. It is a great choice for anyone who enjoys a laid back crowd, meaningful community spirit and the comfort of a parade that feels rooted in tradition.

Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade — March 7
The Kings Park parade launches the month’s festivities with enthusiasm. The village is known for turning out early, and the mix of pipe bands, first responders and community groups makes the march especially spirited. Irish music carries through the streets, and the cheerful, neighborly atmosphere sets the perfect stage for the bigger parade weekends that follow.

Finish the Day with a Classic: Irish Coffee Pub After the marching, music and crowds, there is no better way to wind down than ending your night at the iconic Irish Coffee Pub in East Islip. The warm lighting, the familiar comfort food, the friendly staff and the unmistakably Irish feel make it a destination all its own. Whether you settle in for dinner, share dessert or wrap the night with a traditional Irish coffee, it is the perfect final stop to a full day of celebrating. You can parade, you can pub crawl or you can do both. No matter your path, Long Island keeps the St. Patrick’s spirit going from morning to night.