The Boston Saint Patrick’s Day parade starts at 1pm! It’s the most popular celebration of Irish culture this side of Ireland!
This Guide
You’ll see a comprehensive list of every you need to know to have a fun, but safe time! What time do the bars close? What is the parade route? Those questions and more will be answered!
Did You Know? History
According to the parade website: Bostonians were the first to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in North America. On March 17, 1737, as a gesture of solidarity among the city’s new Irish immigrants, Boston’s Irish community joined together in festivities of their homeland and to honor the memory of the Patron Saint of Ireland.
What Is Evacuation Day?
You may have heard of Evacuation Day. It is also celebrated in Boston on March 17th weekend every year.
According to Wikipedia: The 11-month siege of Boston ended when the Continental Army under the command of George Washington fortified Dorchester Heights in early March 1776 with cannons captured at Ticonderoga. British General William Howe’s garrison and navy were threatened by these positions, and they were forced to decide between attack and retreat. Howe decided to retreat in order to prevent what could have been a repeat of the Battle of Bunker Hill, withdrawing from Boston to Nova Scotia on March 17, 1776.
The British evacuation was Washington’s first victory of the war. It was also a huge morale boost for the Thirteen Colonies.
If I’m correct, experts felt that a storm, provided cover for Washington to get his men in place, causing the British retreat.
On March 17, amidst a violent storm, British General Howe evacuated his ships and 3,000 men from Boston. General Washington wrote to his brother, John Augustine Washington, March 31, 1776:
That this most remarkable Interposition of Providence is for some wise purpose, I have not a doubt.
So, here we go! Get your spot and let’s take a look at the South Boston Saint Patrick’s Day Parade!