Terrific places to spend St. Patrick’s day in Toronto

Please Note: Due to concerns with the Covit-19 virus. Many events have been cancelled. Please contact the venue directly for more information.

The sun is out, and March is finally here, which means that Saint Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. As in most large cities with a large Irish population that means Green beer the Corned beef and cabbage and the obligatory “kiss me, I am Irish” T-shirt. But where do you go to find such curiosities? In Toronto, we will guide through the myriad of possibilities in this week’s blog. Terrific places to spend St. Patrick’s day in Toronto. The celebration also coincides with the SPD parade. It will take place on the 15th of March (Saturday), and it is still one of the largest spectacles of its kind in the city. Everyone is welcome to attend, as there are no political mandates set up by specific organizations- we will not mention here. In essence, it is a family-friendly day to celebrate all things, Irish. Think of it as The Santa Clause parade, then substitute Santa for a leprechaun and add a couple of “Top of the mornings to you.” 

Why not make a weekend of it.

As what often occurs, the SPD celebrations are by no means isolated to the day of the 17th of March. In most cities, the festivities will begin on Friday and continue until the end of SPD itself. Often large quantities of alcohol are consumed. I will not tell you that this is not something that may occur. It will occur. Other items that are “green” and legal in Canada are Shamrocks and marijuana, so I would not be surprised if you encounter a spliff here and a spliff there. Was part of Bob Marley’s ancestry Irish? He just might be. 

Many local restaurants and bars will have a festive SPD shine to them. But here we will focus on some of the best places to party in Toronto. What makes up a good party? It will vary, depending on who you ask.

What we do know:

 A. There must be people, congenial, friendly people.   

B. Music, personally some Irish contemporary such as the Pogues or the Wolftones– but that is just my preference. Music is a must.  

C. Food. Although the traditional fare is ideal. Any type of cuisine is necessary if you are planning on participating.  

D. Drinking or smoking. Once we have all the ingredients, this guide will help you find that great place no matter what your ideal is.

Remember, this just a guideline, so this Terrific St. Patrick’s day feel free to incorporate some of your favourite activities.

With so many events taking place, it is almost impossible for anyone that has a hint of the Blarney (stone) in them not to find a suitable location to have an inspirational Irish moment. May you be young or old or just young at heart this year’s celebrations offer something for everyone. As this is only a guide as to what you can expect, you will find many “local” pubs celebrating old St Patrick’s day too. So grab a seat and a glass of green beer.

Do you have a special place in Toronto that you like to celebrate the day? If so, please share. The proprietor will certainly be happy for the shout out. No matter where you go and where you are, for this magical day, you too are Irish. Of course, this extends through the weekend for those that need to bolster their Irishness. No matter where or how you decide to spend your SPD have respect for each other. Be safe. As my Leprechaun friend has told me many times: “God bless ya.”

As always, it is our privilege.

Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE.