Five ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the Carolinas
St. Patrick’s Day in the Carolinas feels less like the start of spring. Across the region, communities mark the holiday with parades, outdoor festivals, live music, and family-friendly events that bring people outside to celebrate the season. Whether you’re cheering from a city sidewalk or spending the day on the trails, the spirit of the holiday here is all about community, fresh air, and finding your own way to be Irish for the day.
Charlotte offers one of the biggest and most energetic St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Carolinas, with events that range from a traditional parade to a full day of outdoor adventure.
Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Charlotte Goes Green Festival
March 14, 2026
Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns on Saturday, March 14, stepping off at 11 a.m. and continuing until 1 p.m. This longtime community tradition features pipe and drum bands, dancers, schools, neighborhood groups, first responders, and local organizations, all marching through Uptown in celebration. The event is produced by a nonprofit foundation and is open to anyone who wants to take part or simply enjoy the festivities.
Before and after the parade, the Charlotte Goes Green Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along South Tryon Street between Third Street and Stonewall Street, extending into Levine Avenue of the Arts. The festival is free to attend and includes live entertainment, vendors, food, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the atmosphere as the center city turns into a sea of green.
Green River Revival
March 14, 2026
U.S. National Whitewater Center
For a more active way to celebrate, head to the Whitewater Center for Green River Revival, a full-day event that blends outdoor adventure with St. Patrick’s Day fun. The celebration starts at 9 a.m. and continues well into the evening. Kick off the spring season with activities for all ages.
The day begins with the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run, including both competitive and recreational divisions, along with a half-mile kids’ run. Throughout the day, visitors can join outdoor yoga sessions, explore the Wildwoods area, and enjoy a lineup of live music.
At 1 p.m., the event’s signature moment arrives as the Center’s resident leprechaun turns the river bright green before rafters head downstream. With trails, music, family activities, and plenty of open space, Green River Revival offers a relaxed, outdoors-focused way to celebrate the holiday.
Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade
I think they found their new favorite holiday!
March 15, 2026
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Celebrate a Lowcountry tradition at the 40th Annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade, stepping off at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 15. Known as the oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade in South Carolina and recently named the state’s Best Festival, this beloved event brings the community together for an afternoon of festive floats, Irish pride, and plenty of green along the parade route.
Crowds gather each year to enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, lively music, and coastal setting that make this celebration uniquely Hilton Head. To make getting there easier, the Breeze Trolley will offer one-way service from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., running from the USCB Hilton Head campus to the area near Lowcountry Celebration Park. With its milestone anniversary and the excitement of returning after last year’s weather cancellation, this year’s parade promises an especially spirited celebration in the heart of the Lowcountry.
North Myrtle Beach St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
March 14, 2026
Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
North Myrtle Beach turns into a sea of green for one of the Grand Strand’s biggest holiday traditions. The free, rain-or-shine event begins with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 9 a.m., featuring more than 100 festive floats, marching groups, and themed entries traveling from Ocean Boulevard to Main Street. Spectators line the route early with beach chairs and blankets for this lively, two-hour celebration.
The fun continues with the St. Patrick’s Day Festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Main Street. Three stages of live entertainment keep the Irish spirit going all day with pipe bands, Irish dancers, and regional music acts. More than 120 vendors offer crafts, Irish treats, and festival favorites, while street performers and roaming leprechauns add to the atmosphere. Families will find a dedicated kids’ area with rides and games, and visitors can join the fun by entering the Leprechaun Costume Contest or the Shepherd’s Pie Eating Contest. It’s a full day of music, food, and family-friendly celebration by the beach.
Downtown Wilmington St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14, 2026
Historic Downtown Wilmington, North Carolina
Celebrate Irish heritage along the coast at the 25th Annual Downtown Wilmington St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade starts at 11 a.m., beginning on Hanover Street between Nutt and 2nd streets and ending on Dock Street between Front and 2nd streets. This free, rain-or-shine event brings the energy of traditional bagpipes, lively Irish music, and colorful Celtic dance performances to the streets of historic downtown. Wear your best green and join locals and visitors alike for a festive morning celebrating Irish culture in a charming riverfront setting. Additional event details will be released closer to the date.
