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Houston has plenty of fun things to do during St. Patrick's Day weekend. The most popular options include Irish-themed dining, music sessions, dance parties, and sexy kilt contests. But the best way to celebrate is to visit one of local parades—FM 1960 St. Patrick’s Parade or Downtown Houston St. Patrick's Day Parade, both of which are free.
FM 1960 St. Patrick's Parade (March 19, 2023)
The annual FM 1960 St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the largest of its kind in all of Texas. The 3-mile (5-km) route stretches along Farm to Market 1960 Road from Paradise Valley Drive to Kuykendahl Road and boasts more than a hundred floats, decked out in green. Thousands of spectators line the street, packed with vibrant performing groups, fire trucks, police cars, rescue boats, and horses between 2 and 5 pm. Besides, a vendor market, located in the middle of the route, offers delicious goodies and merchandise. The proceeds are donated to the Cypress Creek Emergency Medical Services.
Downtown Houston St. Patrick's Day Parade
With about a hundred marching units, St. Patrick's Day Parade in Houston is recognized among the largest parades throughout the state. The green procession starts at noon at Minute Maid Park, goes westbound along Texas Avenue to San Jacinto Street, Preston Street, around the stadium, and finally ends at 1:30 pm at the intersection of Rusk & St. Emanuel Streets. The parade's route is subject to change, so check the official website for the latest updates (see External Resources). A pleasant bonus is an after-party held in Market Square Park. The program features live music, mouth-watering delicacies, games, and lots of fun activities.
Houston Irish Stew Cook-off and Music Festival
Additionally, Houston St. Patrick's Parade Commission organizes other themed events, namely Houston Irish Stew Cook-off and Music Festival. But the puzzle is that these festivities usually take place around a month before St. Patrick's Day, sometime in early February.
Irish pubs
But if you're eager to feast on green beer and Irish stew, Houston has plenty of places to cater to your needs. Check out The Rustic, McGonigel's Mucky Duck, or Saint Arnold Beer Garden, to name a few. So pull out your green garments and head out for a bar crawl.