3 top cities for celebrating St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day originated in Ireland to honour the country’s patron saint, but it’s now an international holiday. Check out these 3 cities for some of the best St. Patrick’s Day celebrations outside Ireland.

Every year in Chicago, citizens of the city throw a giant party to celebrate this traditionally Irish holiday. The Chicago River, which runs through the heart of downtown, is dyed green. A giant parade featuring floats, music and performances runs through the city on the Saturday nearest the holiday. Huge crowds come out to watch the parade, so be sure to find a spot with a good view early so that you don't miss the procession of high-steppers, bagpipers, Irish horses and other festive characters.

Originating in 1824, Montreal's St. Patrick's Day parade is one of the longest running and most festive St. Patrick's Day parades in the world. The parade itself is a lively and colourful spectacle attracting nearly 500,000 people annually, with bars and restaurants along the route opening early and serving late to accommodate the happy revellers. The holiday is celebrated every year on 17 March and the parade starts around midday. For a detailed route map, a quick Internet search will give you all the info you need.

Londoners love celebrating St. Patrick's Day each year, with the city taking on a party atmosphere as it plays host to a wide range of events. One of the most famous is the parade, which follows a 2.5 km route through the city to Whitehall. Various celebrations are also held in Trafalgar Square, including a comedy festival and concerts. Keep your eye on the skyline for a glimpse of the legendary London Eye Ferris wheel, which is lit up in green in honour of St. Patrick's Day.

If you're lucky enough to be in one of these cities on St. Patrick's Day, be sure to join in the festivities and remember to wear green!