Get ready for a full-day celebration that blends heritage and fun across the metro. This guide previews morning parades, family events, and lively pub scenes rooted in Irish traditions that arrived here in the mid-1800s. Expect clear routes, timing tips, and picks that help you enjoy live music, dance, and food without the guesswork.
Plan with confidence: use this resource to map parade lines, spot the best viewing areas, and find friendly pubs for afternoon and evening gatherings. You will learn how local cultural hubs keep the spirit alive and where to start, pause, and end a safe, fun night. Follow our practical tips to avoid crowds and make every party stop count.
Key Takeaways
- Map a full-day plan from parade morning to late-night gatherings.
- Use timing tips to skip lines and catch top entertainment.
- Balance heritage stops with modern hotspots for a rich experience.
- Lean on curated picks to find family-friendly and late-night options.
- Prioritize safety and simple logistics for a smooth celebration.
Kansas City St Patricks Day at a Glance: What to Expect This Season
Expect a full parade-to-party rhythm that fills streets and pubs across the metro. Morning parades pair leprechauns, marching bands, and floats. Afternoons move into bars serving green beverages and live sets.
Plan smart: arrive early near parade routes to secure a great view and allow buffer time between events. Book brunch and dinner ahead—hot spots in Westport, the Plaza, and Power & Light fill fast.
- Mix of heritage and fun: traditional music, Irish fare, and modern party specials offer something for families and nightlife fans.
- Pack for comfort: dress warmly, wear good shoes, and carry snacks to stay energized while you walk.
- Connect culturally: build in a stop at the Kansas City Irish Center to learn more than just the party side of the celebration.
Finish with a safe ride plan; traffic and surge pricing spike after major events. With a flexible schedule, your patrick day can flow from parade to pub without the stress.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Kansas City: Route, Honors, and How to Join
The parade route threads from Linwood & Broadway down to 43rd Street, ending in lively Westport where music and food await. This layout makes Westport an easy post-parade hub for families and friends. Aim to arrive early for the best viewing and a smooth exit.
Route, timing, and viewing tips
The procession starts near Linwood & Broadway and marches south along Broadway to 43rd Street. Example start time: March 17, 2026 at 11:30 AM.
Aim to be in place 60–90 minutes before kickoff, especially near 39th–43rd where crowds swell as the parade hits Westport.
Honors and community recognition
Look for named roles such as Grand Marshal Ronan Collins and the Mike Murphy Honorary IrishPerson. Awards include honors for arts, business, humanitarian work, an Irish Flag Bearer, and the Cullinan Family Spirit Award.
How to participate or support
The Parade Committee welcomes sponsors, volunteers, and march entries. Use their contact form to sign up and get placement details.
Extend the celebration
Make Westport your base for live music and green-themed menus. Nearby towns host parades too — Leavenworth and Lawrence offer smaller, family-friendly processions.
After the march, visit Browne’s Irish Marketplace for traditional food or Celtic Ranch in Weston for Irish goods and whiskey.
| What | Where | Why it matters | Timing tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parade route | Linwood & Broadway → 43rd St | Clear landmarks make meetups easy | Arrive 60–90 min early |
| Honored roles | Along the route | Celebrates community leaders (e.g., Ronan Collins) | Watch for award segments near Westport |
| After-party | Westport; Browne’s; Celtic Ranch | Food, music, and shopping | Book midday reservations when possible |
St. Paddy Nightlife: Kansas City Bar Crawl, Parties, and Live Music
Get checked in between 4–6 PM at Border Brewing Company (512 E 18 St) or DoubleTap KC (310 Oak St) to grab your stadium cup, bottle opener lanyard, and badge with tear-off vouchers.
Green voucher — 4–6 PM
Start strong at Border Brewing Company with early specials and a clear meetup window. Use this time to collect beads and plan your route for the night.
Yellow voucher — 6–8 PM
Move into Howl At The Moon for the Liquid Luck run: $5 green beer, Lucky Charms shots, and a music-forward set that keeps momentum high.
Red voucher — 10 PM–12 AM
Finish at Otaku Lounge for the Scavenger Hunt Shot and the official after-party. Expect late-night beats, themed deals, and a lively photo scene.
- Featured specials: $2 Jello Shots and $5 drafts at Double Shift; $6 Lucky Charms Shot and $7 Blarney Bomb at Howl At The Moon; Otaku specials include $3 shots and a $10.99 Leprechaun Loot Box.
- Pro tips: buy tickets early, use group discounts, redeem vouchers on time, and pack a snack and water for pacing.
- Follow the interactive map pins (green/yellow/red) to avoid long lines and keep your patrick day party flowing smoothly.
Family-Friendly St. Patrick Day Fun and Irish Heritage in Kansas City
Plan a weekend that mixes races, parades, and hands-on heritage stops for a true neighborhood experience.
Snake Saturday Parade in North Kansas City kicks off the family weekend the Saturday before the main march. It features a lively cook-off, a carnival, and kids’ activities and has raised more than $1 million for charity over 40 years.
Westport Runs and Kids’ Races
Lace up for Westport’s 4-mile race or cheer at the Little Shamrock Run, a quick 3-block dash made for young leprechauns. Both events make the morning active and fun for families.
Heritage Stops and Breakfast
Fuel up at Restless Spirits for a traditional Irish breakfast steps from parade lines. Then visit the Kansas City Irish Center to explore exhibits that deepen appreciation for local Irish culture.
“These events balance celebration with community service and history, offering something for all ages.”
| Event | What to Expect | Kid-Friendly | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snake Saturday Parade | Cook-off, carnival, charity fundraising | Yes — games and activities | Pick spots near restrooms |
| Westport 4-mile & Little Shamrock Run | Timed race; short kids’ dash | Yes — race options for ages | Bring layers and snacks |
| Kansas City Irish Center | Exhibits, programs, cultural talks | Yes — family-friendly exhibits | Plan a short visit between events |
Quick tips: consider a two-day plan — Saturday for family events and the main st. patrick parade for the big festivities. Wrap up early with an easy ride home so tired kids end the patrick day happy and warm.
Irish Pubs, Food, and Music: Classic Kansas City Spots to Celebrate
Plan a crawl that pairs iconic taverns with hearty food and steady music to make the most of your celebration.
Kelly’s Westport Inn has welcomed revelers since 1947 and remains a must-visit on st. patrick nights. Arrive early to beat lines and enjoy the classic pub atmosphere.
O’Dowd’s on the Plaza
O’Dowd’s blends gastrobar food with craft spirits and live sets. It’s a good spot to slow the pace and grab a solid meal between pours.
McFadden’s Sports Saloon
This Power & Light favorite is all about a loud, fun party vibe. Expect TVs, group-friendly spaces, and a crowd ready to cheer.
O’Malley’s 1842 Pub in Weston
Take a short drive to O’Malley’s for a multi-level, historic setting and boisterous performances that feel like a festival night.
- Tip: rotate Westport, Plaza, and Power & Light stops to balance atmosphere and crowds.
- Food advice: order shareable plates or an Irish breakfast to keep energy up between pours.
- Backup: always have one or two nearby alternatives if lines get long.
| Pub | Best for | Timing tip |
|---|---|---|
| Kelly’s Westport Inn | Tradition & atmosphere | Arrive early on st. patrick day |
| O’Dowd’s on the Plaza | Food & live music | Book a table before evening set |
| McFadden’s Sports Saloon | Group party energy | Drop in after parade crowds thin |
Plan Your Patrick Day: Routes, Timing, and Getting Home Safely
Map a simple timeline that anchors morning parade spots to evening venues so you avoid rushed transfers.
Plot your patrick day around the Broadway corridor and Westport. Start with parade viewing from Linwood & Broadway to 43rd Street, then allow travel time to a midday meal and short rest.
Check in for the bar crawl between 4–6 PM at Border Brewing Company or DoubleTap KC. Note voucher windows: Howl At The Moon 6–8 PM and Otaku Lounge 10 PM–12 AM.
- Transit prep: pre-buy rideshare credits or confirm a designated driver.
- Safety tips: save offline maps, share live locations, and use a buddy system near Westport.
- Comfort & logistics: wear layers, pack a backup battery and a little cash, and stagger meetups at clear corners.
| When | Where | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Late morning | Linwood & Broadway → 43rd St | Best parade views; plan 60–90 min early |
| 4–6 PM | Border Brewing / DoubleTap KC | Crawl check-in window |
| Pre-book | Pickup point away from closures | Avoid surge and long waits after the after party |
Cap the night by scheduling a ride ahead and confirming pickup spots a few minutes early. This keeps your st. patrick celebration fun and safe.
Conclusion
Cap the festivities by focusing on memories, smart timing, and safe travel home. Enjoy the parade magic, stop for heritage moments, and sample classic pubs like Kelly’s Westport Inn and O’Dowd’s.
With this guide, you’re ready to enjoy st. patrick across kansas city—from morning parades to evening clinks and high-energy events.
Blend culture and celebration on patrick day by pairing family stops with lively venues. Keep your schedule flexible, book rides in advance, and pace the night to make lasting memories.
Plan ahead, stay safe, and celebrate together. Let the local spirit carry your festivities from first note to last toast.
FAQ
What time does the parade start and where is the route?
The parade kicks off mid-morning and runs from Linwood & Broadway to 43rd Street, finishing in Westport. Expect street closures and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and avoid traffic delays.
Who are the parade honorees and how are they selected?
The parade features community leaders and cultural ambassadors chosen by the Parade Committee for service and Irish heritage contributions. Honorees this season include longtime volunteers and members of the local Irish community honored for civic work and cultural leadership.
How can I participate, sponsor, or volunteer with the parade?
Contact the Parade Committee via the official event website or email to inquire about float entries, marching units, sponsorship packages, or volunteer shifts. Early registration secures placement and lets organizers plan staging and safety.
Where are the best spots for post-parade celebrations and live music?
Westport is the hub for post-parade parties with bars and outdoor stages offering live music and food. Look for venues in the neighborhood and official event areas for family-friendly stages and late-night entertainment.
Are there other nearby parades or Irish markets worth visiting?
Yes. Nearby Leavenworth and Lawrence host lively parades, and Browne’s Irish Marketplace and Celtic Ranch offer Irish goods, performances, and cultural experiences for the whole family.
What should I know about the St. Paddy nightlife bar crawl and ticketing?
Bar crawls often use voucher colors and wristbands for timed specials. Typical check-in points include Border Brewing and DoubleTap for early entry. Buy tickets in advance, bring a stadium cup or lanyard if required, and review refund and ID policies before you go.
What are common drink and food specials during the crawl?
Expect themed specials like drafts, jello shots, Lucky Charms shots, Blarney Bombs, and timed green-beer vouchers. Specials vary by venue and time slot, so check event materials for exact offers.
Are there family-friendly events and activities for kids?
Yes. Family options include Snake Saturday Parades, cook-offs, carnivals, kids’ races such as the Little Shamrock Run, and cultural programs at the local Irish Center. Many venues host free or low-cost activities suitable for children.
What races or runs are scheduled around the holiday?
Look for Westport’s 4-mile run and the Little Shamrock Run for kids. Registration is typically required; organizers recommend arriving early for packet pickup and warm-ups.
Which pubs are best for a traditional Irish experience?
Classic spots include long-established neighborhood pubs and gastrobars known for live music, traditional dishes, and Irish spirits. Popular choices attract large crowds, so plan reservations or arrive early on the holiday.
How can I celebrate Irish culture beyond the parties?
Attend concerts, storytelling sessions, heritage exhibits, and community breakfasts hosted by the local Irish Center or cultural groups. These events focus on music, dance, history, and family traditions.
What transport and safety tips should I follow for the holiday?
Use public transit, rideshares, or designated drivers to avoid parking hassles. Plan exit routes, set meeting points with friends, and follow event safety guidance. Pace alcohol consumption and stay hydrated, especially if attending outdoor events.
Are there accessible viewing areas and accommodations for attendees with mobility needs?
Organizers typically provide accessible viewing zones and rest areas. Check the parade and venue accessibility pages before you go, and contact organizers to request assistance or accommodations.
How can I find volunteer opportunities at pubs, races, or cultural events?
Reach out directly to event organizers, local nonprofits, and venue managers. Volunteer sign-ups often appear on official event sites and community bulletin boards with roles ranging from course marshals to information tent staffing.
Where can I get the latest updates on schedule changes or weather-related adjustments?
Follow official parade and event social channels, sign up for email alerts, or check venue websites for real-time announcements. Organizers post detours, postponements, and safety advisories as needed.