May the road rise to meet you and lead you to Downtown York on Saturday, for the annual York St. Patrick's Day Parade! Wherever you hail from, we have a front-row seat just for you. Bagpipes, high-stepping Irish dancers, and an afternoon of shamrock-spirited fun await along historic Market Street. Bring your friends, bring the family, and stay awhile to discover why York is the place to celebrate this St. Paddy's Day!

Where Celtic Spirit Meets Local Pride: The York St. Patrick's Day Parade

Join us for decades of tradition and delight as the 39th annual parade steps off at 1 PM sharp. From vibrant bagpipe bands and Irish dance troupes to dazzling floats and costumed characters, every moment brings a dash of luck and plenty of local pride. Whether you're part of the hometown crowd or visiting from afar, you'll be charmed by York's warm welcome and the lucky magic of St. Patrick's Day.

Perfect Mix of Festive & Friendly

York's laid-back atmosphere meets lively Celtic spirit—creating a welcoming vibe for families, friends, and solo visitors alike!

Charming & walkable parade route

Enjoy two hours of pure fun and energy as the parade steps off at 1 PM along easily accessible downtown streets.

Activities Galore

Surrounding the parade is a whole day of discovery: explore local shops, museums, art galleries, breweries, and more.

Great for Groups of All Sizes

From family reunions to couples on a getaway, everyone will love the lucky charms of York's compact, walkable downtown.

Saturday Celebrations

Unlike many bigger cities in the region, York parades our Irish spirit on Saturday, giving you an entire weekend to celebrate.

Rooted in Local Pride

More than a parade, it's a community celebration showcasing York's warm hospitality & big-hearted spirit!

You're in Luck! Parade Day Specials are Here.

Are you ready to shamROCK with us? We're brewing up an unforgettable afternoon filled with Irish tunes, lively performances, and the energy only York can bring to a St. Patrick's Day celebration! Check out these special activities and deals to make the most of your visit.

Chilly Dog 5K Race in New Freedom

5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Walk for Families 10 AM
Lace up your running shoes for this frosty run that starts with a scenic train ride on the North Central Railway train. Race participants will be dropped off at the 1-mile or 3.1-mile mark to race to the finish line back at the train station.

Click here to register

Gift Horse Brewing Company

Live Music 11 AM, 2 PM & 6 PM
Enjoy live performances before and after the parade, featuring:
Connor Green: 11 AM
Fierce: 2 PM
Givn: 6 PM

10 AM to 1 PM: Keystone Kidspace

Bring the whole family to this interactive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math) learning center for hands-on St. Patrick's Day crafts. Kids of all ages will enjoy exploring!

Bonus Activity: Come back and join us on Sun. March 16 for our St. Paddy's Day Shenanigans.

Cost:
Free Admission
Free Parking & Walkable to Parade Route

Martin Library

Pre-Parade Performance with Ni Riain School of Irish Dance

Part of York County Libraries, Martin Library is a welcoming community hub where everyone can discover something new.

Refillism Refill & Zero Waste Shop

All-Day Shopping Deals
Enjoy 10% OFF all NEW empty bottles and take the first step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

York County History Center

Dig into the region's vibrant past and Celtic history with free admission, extended hours, and engaging exhibits and artifacts that celebrate York's rich heritage. History buffs will find it's the perfect stop to understand what makes York unique.

Time:
Free Admission 3 PM to 5 PM
Open 10 AM to 5 PM

Capture Parade Magic with a Photo at Cherry Lane

Downtown York is celebrating St. Patrick's Day with a dazzling display of green in Cherry Lane. Stop by on parade day, snap a photo, and share it using #LuckyYouLuckyYork to spread good luck far and wide!

Route & Schedule

The parade follows Market Street from Penn Street to Queen Street in Downtown York, PA.

Step-off is at 1 PM and typically runs until around 3 PM.

Arrive early to snag your favorite viewing spot along the route—we've got a seat for you!

Pre- & Post Parade Entertainment

Downtown York will come alive beginning at 11 AM with live music, street performers, and local businesses offering special deals that continue through the evening. We've included a list of special activities and deals — free admission to extended hours—under Parade Day Specials listed above.

Grab a bite at nearby cafés or restaurants and soak up the festive atmosphere before or after the parade!

Rain/Snow or Shine: The parade goes on no matter the weather—so dress for the day!