A guide to St. Patrick’s Day Parade in NYC

The New York City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade is coming up soon, and NYC’s parade is a really big deal. It’s the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the world. The first NYC parade was held in 1762, and it’s been a time-honored tradition of Irish pride ever since.

From pipe and drum bands to dancers and performers in regalia, midtown Manhattan transforms into a big party with a sea of green revelers every year on March 17. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about 2023’s parade, including when and where it’ll be taking place.

Make sure to check out our other suggestions for great St. Patrick’s Day events, too.

When is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade?

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes on St. Patrick’s Day on Friday, March 17, 2023.

What time does the St. Patrick’s Day Parade start?

The procession starts at 11am and ends around 4:30pm.

Where can I get the best view?

Anywhere on Fifth Avenue will provide a good view of the festivities. Spectators can begin lining up as early as they would like. For the best views, get their early.

If you want to try to score grandstand seats, you’ve got to mail a letter (yes, really) to the parade committee (here’s how).

Where is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade route?

The parade begins at East 44th Street, marching up Fifth Avenue—past St. Patrick’s Cathedral at 50th Street—all the way to East 79th Street.

What are the street closures for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade?

A lot of them. If you’re trying to get somewhere in this area on parade day, you’re better off walking than trying to drive.

5th Avenue between 42nd Street and 86th Street
Madison Avenue between 63rd Street and 64th Street
Madison Ave between 78th Street and 86th Street
Vanderbilt Avenue between 43rd Street and 46th Street
43rd Street between Vanderbilt Avenue and 6th Avenue
44th Street between Vanderbilt Avenue and 6th Avenue
45th Street between Vanderbilt Avenue and 6th Avenue
46th Street between Vanderbilt Avenue and 6th Avenue
47th Street between Park Avenue and 6th Avenue
48th Street between Park Avenue and 6th Avenue
62nd Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
63rd Street between 5th Avenue and Madison Avenue
64th Street between Park Avenue and 5th Avenue
72nd Street between Madison Avenue and 5th Avenue
78th Street between Madison Avenue and 5th Avenue
79th Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
80th Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
81st Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
82nd Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
83rd Street between 5th Avenue and Park Avenue
84th Street between Madison Avenue and 5th Avenue
85th Street between Madison Avenue and 5th Avenue