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Celebrating St. Patrick's Day and Our Local Parades

Time to Wear Green and Honor St Patrick - Here's How!

By Naida March 6, 2024

St. Patrick's Day is an annual holiday celebrated on March 17th, in honor of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This day is celebrated by people all over the world, and is a great opportunity for families to come together and learn about Irish culture. 

St. Patrick's Day commemorates the life and work of St. Patrick, a Christian missionary who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century. St. Patrick is believed to have died on March 17th, and this day has since been celebrated as a feast day in his honor. Over time, the holiday became more secular and is now a celebration of Irish culture, with parades, festivals, and other festivities.

Here are some ideas for how to celebrate it with kids.

1. Wear Green

One of the most well-known traditions associated with St. Patrick's Day is wearing green. Encourage your kids to wear green clothing or accessories, and make it fun by creating green-themed outfits or accessories, such as hats or jewelry.

2. Make Shamrock Crafts

Shamrocks are a symbol of Ireland and St. Patrick's Day. You can teach your kids how to make shamrock crafts, such as paper cutouts or painting, and use them to decorate the house or make cards for family and friends. Take a look at some of our favorites HERE

3. Cook Traditional Irish Food

St. Patrick's Day is a great opportunity to try some traditional Irish food. You can cook a family dinner of corned beef and cabbage, or shepherd's pie, or bake some traditional Irish soda bread. This is a great way to teach your kids about Irish culture and try new foods. Try our Corned Beef recipes HERE

4. Learn About Irish History

Take some time to learn about Irish history and culture with your kids. You can read books or watch movies about Ireland, learn about Irish folklore, or listen to traditional Irish music. This can be a great opportunity to teach your kids about different cultures and expand their knowledge of the world.

5. Attend a St. Patrick's Day Parade

Many cities and towns have St. Patrick's Day parades, which can be a fun way to celebrate with the whole family. Look for a parade in your area and attend with your kids. This can be a great opportunity to see different floats, listen to music, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.


Here are a few of our nearest St. Patrick's Day Celebrations and Parades:

Saturday, March 9th

* noon - Morris County St. Patrick's Day Parade - Union
Location: Stuyvesant Avenue and Morris Ave, Union

Sunday, March 10th

*1:30pm -Woodbridge St. Patrick's Day Parade - Woodbridge
Location: Woodbridge High School

* 1:30pm - Somerville St. Patrick's Day Parade - Somerville
Location: Main Street

Friday, March 15th*

* 1pm - Newark St. Patrick's Day Parade - Newark
Location: NJPAC

Sunday, March 17th

* noon - Freehold St. Patrick's Day Parade - Freehold
Location: Freehold Elks

* 2pm - South Amboy St. Patrick's Day Parade
Location: Main Street, South Amboy, NJ. 

For Fun Ways to Celebrate St Patrick's Day, read:
17 Ways to a Memorable St Patrick's Day
and 
Interview with a Leprechaun


Be sure to tell local businesses and events you found them 
on Macaroni Kid Greater Woodbridge ... 
and make sure to tell all your friends!