St. Patrick’s Day parades in Quebec: where, when and how to enjoy them

Quebec and Ireland have a lot in common, a sense of mutual connection and shared moments in history. These ties are revealed in all their splendour on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, when shamrocks, tartans and kelly-green clothing have their chance to shine! Proud of their roots, Irish communities in many cities of Quebec celebrate this important day with colourful parades, music, a lively atmosphere and infectious good cheer.

Feel like joining the party? Mark these St. Patrick's Day parades down in your calendar and plan for an Irish weekend!

5 St. Patrick’s Day parades happening in Quebec

The Grand Marshal opening the parade, the queen and her court of princesses, bagpipers, Irish dancers... it's impossible not to get swept away in the Celtic rhythms and exchange friendly glances and smiles with other spectators!

St. Patrick’s Day parades not only showcase Irish culture and traditions, but they also coincide with the official start of spring. They present the perfect opportunity to celebrate nature's rebirth in a festive atmosphere! Here are the main parades taking place in Quebec, with dates, times and routes.

St. Patrick's Day Parade in Hudson, Saturday March 15, 2025 at 1 p.m. On Main Street, starting on the corner of Côte Saint-Charles and ending at the corner of Beach Street.

Fun fact: The Vaudreuil-Soulanges Irish Society organizes events throughout the year, in addition to the parade.

Montreal’s St. Patrick’s Parade, Sunday March 16, 2025 at noon. Downtown on De Maisonneuve Street, starting on the corner of Fort and ending at the corner of Jeanne-Mance.

Fun fact: This parade will be celebrating its 200th edition! It’s also the oldest St. Patrick's Day parade in North America, and it predates the first one in Dublin.

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Rawdon – Sunday March 16, 2025 at 2 p.m.

Fun fact: The parade closes out a 3-day St. Patrick’s Day festival, happening this year from March 14 to 16.

Richmond's St. Patrick's Parade – Sunday March 16, 2025 at 2 p.m. Starting on Craig Street.

Fun fact: The Richmond St. Patrick’s Society, created in 1877, organizes the Irish Heritage Festival happening over three weeks, from March 1 to 23.

St. Patrick's Day in Quebec – Saturday March 22, 2025 at 2 p.m. in Old Québec City. Starting on Cartier Avenue and heading toward Château Frontenac.

Fun fact: This parade is held a week later than the rest. A great opportunity to keep the party going longer!

5 tips from our St. Paddy’s Day expert

Our colleague Patricia Delisle, a member of the team here at Quebecgetaways.com, is passionate about Ireland and never misses the opportunity to attend a St. Patrick's Day parade (or several parades!) every year. As part of this article, she was more than happy to share her tips on how to make the most of the parades and enjoy them even more:

Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly

"It’s usually still cold in mid-March, especially if it's very windy. On the other hand, it can also be unseasonably mild. Dress so you’ll be comfortable during the parade, keeping in mind that you’ll likely be standing in one spot for quite a while."

Plan ahead

"Budget enough time if you’ll need to find a parking spot near the parade route or if you’ll be taking public transit. Expect that there will be crowds too."

Learn a few words

"Sláinte means health in Irish Gaelic and is said as a drinking toast. Keep things on brand by pairing your toast with a pint of Guinness, red ale or cider! Another key phrase is Céad míle fáilte which means A hundred thousand welcomes and that you’re sure to see on banners and floats during the parade."

Listen to some Irish music

"In addition to reels and jigs, here are some classics from the Irish repertoire I would recommend: The Rocky Road To Dublin, The Irish Rover, The Fields of Athenry and Molly Malone. These songs bring back wonderful memories of my trips to Ireland and times spent in pubs there."

Prepare an Irish meal or book a table at the pub

"I've already planned to make an Irish-themed supper with a sausage dish and Colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage). This themed evening will be a nod to the Irish side of my family: the Connors. Another idea: order a typical dish in an Irish pub. Among my favourites, I would recommend Hurley's Irish Pub in Montreal, Le Trèfle Noir in Trois-Rivières, Sim's Irish Pub in Joliette as well as Ye Old Orchard or McKibbin's, which have several locations in many Quebec cities."

Thanks for your tips Patricia, and Happy St. Paddy’s Day!