California will host a variety of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations this March, reflecting the state’s historical ties to Irish immigrants from the Gold Rush era and its established reputation as a destination for craft beer.
Events will be held across several cities, beginning with Dublin’s three-day St. Patrick’s Day Celebration from March 14–15. The East Bay city, named after Ireland’s capital, will feature Irish music, food, over 200 vendor booths, and a pop-up tea cottage at its Civic Center. Activities also include a parade and pancake breakfast on Saturday and a 5K fun run on Sunday.
San Diego is set to hold what organizers describe as “the biggest parade west of the Mississippi,” next to Balboa Park. The event includes 120 bands, floats, acts, and an adjacent Irish Festival with multiple stages for performers and a Celtic Food village. Later in the day, attendees can visit the ShamRock block party outside The Field pub in the Gaslamp Quarter.
In Los Angeles, Molly Malone’s bar continues its tradition of hosting live bands and traditional Irish gatherings following its move to a new location in the Fairfax District.
Pleasanton will conduct a Brew Crawl featuring more than 25 locations offering beers from regional breweries such as Altamont Beer Works, Epidemic Ales, and Lost Coast Brewery.
San Francisco’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade marks its 175th year with performances by dance troupes and marching bands near City Hall. The United Irish Cultural Center will also host its Emerald Gala to celebrate Irish culture.
Benicia offers another Beer Crawl along Main Street with stops serving both traditional Guinness and local brews like Bear Republic and Calicraft Coast.
Sacramento’s Old Sacramento district will see its 22nd annual parade through historic waterfront areas with Highland dancers and re-enactors participating.
Long Beach’s Queen Mary ship hosts an evening celebration where different salons are transformed into pubs with live music; guests can book rooms onboard for extended festivities.
Casey’s Street Festival in downtown Los Angeles begins at 11 a.m. on March 17, stretching four blocks with extensive drink options—more than 400 kegs of beer—and DJ sets throughout the day. Entry is free before 11 a.m.; afterward it costs $20 for those aged 21 or older. Grand Central Market nearby plans additional Irish-themed specials that weekend.
Murphys in Calaveras County commemorates its founding by two Irish immigrants with Murphys Irish Day on March 21, including parades featuring bagpipes and classic cars alongside wine tastings reflecting the region’s present-day industry.
