St. Patrick's Day Canada 2025: Your Complete Guide to Irish Celebrations

St. Patrick's Day in Canada is one of the most anticipated cultural celebrations of the year, and 2025 promises to be no exception. Falling on Monday, March 17, 2025, this year’s festivities will span the weekend, offering Canadians plenty of opportunities to celebrate Irish heritage. 

Let’s find out more about St. Patrick’s Day 2025 in Canada, the history of this holiday, and how you can celebrate no matter where you are located across the country.

What is St. Patrick's Day?

St. Patrick’s Day commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who played a key role in bringing Christianity to the Irish people during the fifth century. Over the years, the day has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that celebrates Irish heritage through parades, music, food, and, of course, vibrant green attire.

Why is St. Patrick's Day Celebrated in Canada?

In Canada, upwards of 4.5 million people claim Irish ancestry, and for decades, St. Patrick’s Day has been a staple of Canadian communities.

While it’s a day to honour Irish-Canadian heritage, the celebrations have taken on a life of their own and invite people from all backgrounds to participate and enjoy the holiday.

Where to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in 2025

Let’s start with some of the top celebrations taking place across Canada, and then explore some closer-to-home options that you can find no matter where you are located.

1. Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Montreal’s parade is one of North America’s longest-running, dating back to 1824. In 2025, the parade will celebrate its 201st anniversary, starting at 12:00 PM on Ste-Catherine Street. Expect colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of Irish cheer.

2. Toronto’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Toronto’s celebrations kick off with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16, 2025, winding through downtown streets. The city’s Irish pubs typically host live music and themed menus on parade day and St. Patrick’s Day itself.

3. Vancouver’s CelticFest

Vancouver’s CelticFest runs in mid-March, usually coinciding with BC’s March Break. The festival offers a full week of events, including Celtic music concerts, dance performances, and cultural workshops. The festival usually culminates in a lively street with family-friendly activities and outdoor mingling.

St. Patrick’s Day Activities 2025

Even if you aren’t located in one of the cities mentioned above, there are still fun and family-friendly options for you to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year!

Keep in mind that many towns and cities across Canada host their own parades, so be sure to check with your municipality to make the most of St. Patrick’s Day. If not, you can explore:

• Irish Dance Performances & Cultural Experiences: Search for your local Irish cultural centre to check out St. Patrick’s Day performances and exhibitions.

• Irish-Themed Crafts and Baking: If you prefer to stay home during the holiday this year, you can still have fun with your family and learn about this Canadian holiday by trying out some St. Patrick’s Day crafts or themed baking!

Tips for St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day has developed a reputation around partying and pub culture, so it’s important to be safe and prepared, especially if you’re planning to drink.

• Plan your transportation ahead of time, especially if your city has a parade, since major roads may be shut down.
• Drink responsibly. If you’re planning to consume alcohol, make sure to schedule a safe ride home and stay hydrated.‍
• Check the weather ahead of time, since March can be a windy and unpredictable month. If you’re planning to celebrate outdoors, be sure to dress appropriately and bring extra layers.