Your Amherst St. Patrick’s Day Game Plan: Events Worth the Drive

St. Patrick’s Day is almost here, and Amherst is a fantastic place to soak in the season. From live punk rock performances to family-friendly parades and neighborhood pubs with genuine Irish character, the region has something worth celebrating for everyone. 

We’ve pulled together the best local events so you can plan a St. Patrick’s Day that feels as full and festive as the holiday deserves.

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Top Community Events & Festivities

1. Catch Big Bad Bollocks at The Iron Horse

Join punk rock band Big Bad Bollocks for a live St. Patrick’s Day celebration at The Iron Horse in Northampton on Friday, March 13, at 7:00 p.m. It’s a high-energy night that kicks the season off right.

2. Travel to see the Dropkick Murphys in Boston

Few bands do St. Patrick’s Day like the Dropkick Murphys. A bit further from Amherst (but well worth the trip), catch them at one of four Boston-area performances throughout St. Patrick’s Day weekend from March 13-17.

3. Celebrate at the St. Patrick’s Day Party at O’Connell’s

O’Connell’s Pub and Grill in Chicopee is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Party featuring the Roving Corsairs, starting at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17. Great live music, a lively crowd, and a welcoming atmosphere make this one easy to recommend.

4. Run the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Road Race

Lace up and take on the 49th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Road Race. A 10K held on Saturday, March 21. It’s a beloved local tradition that brings the community together in the most active way possible.

5. Attend the Holyoke 73rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Just a short drive from Amherst, the Holyoke 73rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade delivers festive fun for the whole family. This year’s event runs Sunday, March 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This will be a full afternoon of community celebration worth planning around.

6. Explore the Irish flair at The Harp

The Harp Irish Pub on Sunderland Road in Amherst brings authentic character to every visit, with extra festive energy as St. Patrick’s Day draws near. Stop in for a pint, expect a warm atmosphere, and let the season settle in.

7. Drive out to Shannon’s Irish Ale House in Worcester

Shannon’s Irish Ale House in Worcester is worth the drive for Irish food and drink done right. Order Irish coffee, sandwiches, appetizers, wood-grilled pizza, and get fully into the spirit of the holiday.

Enjoy the Day Responsibly

However you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, enjoy it with intention. Plan your parking and transportation ahead of time for larger events, and make sure you have a designated driver in place before the day gets going.

Before the festivities begin, stop by the MAC dispensary in Amherst for high-quality products and a well-curated cannabis selection. Our knowledgeable budtenders are here to help you find exactly what you need for a festive St. Patrick’s Day out or a relaxed evening winding down at home afterward.

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By Mass Alternative Care