Top St. Patrick’s Day Parades in New Jersey 2026

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: The Best New Jersey 2026 Parades & Celebrations

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St. Patrick’s Day lands on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, which means most nj st patrick's day events (especially parades) hit the weekends before the holiday. If you’ve ever tried to pick a parade without a plan, you know how it goes, great vibes, tough parking, and a route you can’t find once you arrive.

This guide keeps it simple: a region-by-region roundup of standout new jersey Saint Patrick day parades, with dates, start times, locations, route notes, and what makes each one worth the trip.

Plans can change fast due to weather, construction, and public safety needs, so confirm details with official parade sites and local alerts before you go.

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Stay tuned --- we will be updating this list as the event sponsors confirm the status  of this year's events.

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Northern New Jersey 2026 St. Patrick Parades and Celebrations

North Jersey brings two very different parade styles. Some like Newark feel like a big-city tradition, with crowds that show up like it’s a major league game. Whereas, some like smaller town Morris County leans more hometown, with lots of local groups and a classic Main Street parade vibe.

If you’re traveling in, think like a commuter. Trains and light rail can save you real time, and they can keep your day fun when parking gets tight.

Rutherford St Patrick's Day Parade (March 1, 2026)

@ 1pm, the Rutherford St Patricks Day parade begins marching along Park Avenue, starting at Woodland Avenue and going north through downtown and ending at Ames Avenue. The parade’s charming downtown route gives spectators an up‑close, family‑friendly experience, while Rutherford’s tradition of honoring distinguished community members each year adds a meaningful, personal touch. It’s the kind of parade where everyone knows someone marching, and that sense of connection turns the celebration into something memorable and deeply rooted in local pride.

Hoboken LepreCon Day Bar Crawl (March 7th, 2026)

@ 12 noon, the Hoboken LepreCon Day crawl will begin with over 20+ Bars open to bar hop through. The festivities kick off as thousands gather for a lively day of bar crawling and revelry. Hoboken's top bars are ready to welcome you with incredible food and drink specials, creating an atmosphere you won't want to miss. Hoboken LepreCon Day is a one-of-a-kind event where the spirit of St. Patrick's Day comes alive. Expect fully staffed bars buzzing with friendly pub crawlers, all hopping from one venue to the next. With dynamic music and an electrifying crowd, LepreCon Day is sure to be an unforgettable celebration of Irish spirit and community fun!

Nutley St Patrick's Day Parade (March 7, 2026)

@ 1pm The Nutley St. Patricks Day parade will begin at Harrison Ave and Evergreen Street, going north up Franklin Ave and ending on Chestnut Street with the Review Stand in front of John Walker Middle School!
Families line Franklin Avenue hours early, neighbors greet each other like old friends, and generations of Nutley residents return home just to be part of the tradition. The parade honors Irish heritage with genuine pride—bagpipers, step dancers, community groups, and first responders all marching with a sense of unity that feels uniquely Nutley.

Sussex County (Newton) St Patrick's Parade (March 7, 2026)

@10am, the Newton St. Patricks Day parade will begin on Lower Spring Street and finish at Memory Park. Local fire companies, scout troops, heritage organizations, and longtime family businesses all marching shoulder to shoulder down Spring Street. The rolling hills of Sussex County create a picturesque backdrop, giving the parade a warm, hometown feel that's hard to replicate elsewhere.

Hackettstown St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 8, 2026)

@ 3:30 p.m, the Hackettstown St. Patricks Day Parade marchers and bagpipers will stroll down Main Street from Grand Avenue to Warren Street. Main Street, restaurants and breweries will offer Irish-themed fare and stores will offer special discounts. Have fun completing the family-friendly scavenger hunt.The parade is pet-friendly, with a special pet Irish Costume Contest sponsored by Doggie Styleash. Judging will be held at Czig Meister Brewing, located at 106 Valentine St. Pets will then be invited to walk in the parade after judging.

 

Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 13, 2026)

A high-energy weekday parade that still feels like a big event, with deep roots and easy transit access. @ 1:00 PM the Newark St Patricks Day Parade begins at the corner of Mulberry Street and Raymond Boulevard, rolls by NJPAC onto Central Avenue and concludes on Washington Street.
Newark’s parade is widely known as one of the state’s longest-running celebrations, and it’s promoted as the oldest in New Jersey. It also has that rare “weekday parade” feel, like you’re in on something locals know and visitors discover. If you’re bringing kids, plan a simple meet-up spot in case the crowd splits, like “we’ll regroup by the nearest station entrance” or “outside the same cafe.”

Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Morristown (March 14, 2026)

A big turnout with a strong community feel, the kind of parade where you see neighbors, school groups, and local organizations stacked back-to-back. @12:00 noon The Morristown - Morris County St. Patricks Day Parade will step off on South Street and continue to Atno Avenue. There will be about 20 bands with about 50,000 in attendance either in the parade or as spectators. Morristown’s parade typically draws a big crowd for a downtown setting, with a strong lineup of community groups and a full “day out” feel. Many years also include related local events in the weeks leading up to the parade, which helps build momentum. If you’re meeting friends, pick a landmark along the likely downtown corridor and arrive early, Morristown can feel packed quickly once roads close.

Union County St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 14, 2026)

@ 1 p.m. the Union County County St. Patricks Day Parade begins in Union with the Marching units gathering at Morris Avenue and along Commerce and Jeanette Avenues, the parade route proceeds east along Morris Avenue to a turn at the Main Reviewing Stand and ends at Roosevelt Avenue. The Midway Reviewing Stand is at Morris and Caldwell Avenues. The event will feature bagpipers, dancers, grand floats and non-stop music. Join in at the Union Center on Stuyvesant Ave for delicious festival foods, kids rides, activities and vendors. Bring your chairs to enjoy the parade.
Arrive early to find yourself a prime spot

Bergen County St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 15, 2026)

@ 2 p.m. the Bergen County - Bergenfield St. Patricks Day Parade Begins in Bergenfield at South Washington Avenue and West Englewood Avenue, proceeds north along Washington Avenue, and concludes at St. John's Roman Catholic Church. The parade features an honoring the culture and spirit of Ireland and Irish American history with pipe bands, traditional Irish dancers, entertainment and a sea of green, of course.

West Orange St Patrick's Parade (March 15th, 2026)

@12:15pm the West Orange St Patricks Day parade begins at the corners of Main Street & Mt. Pleasant Avenue ( Town Hall) and runs north along Main Street to Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Eagle Rock Avenue. The 2026 parade continues a tradition that began in 1951 and has grown into one of New Jersey’s preeminent St. Patrick’s celebrations, known for its dignity, size, and strong family roots. It's not just a parade; it's a tradition that unites the town in gratitude, joy, and shared cultural pride, making it one of the most beloved St. Patrick's Day events in Essex County. Complimentary shuttle buses are provided to transport marchers and spectators to the starting location of the Parade at Town Hall. The buses begin boarding at 10:30am on Mississippi Avenue adjacent to Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

Ringwood St Patrick's Parade (March 21, 2026)

@1:00 pm the Ringwood St Patricks Day parade begins at the corner of Fieldstone drive and Skyline Drive then up to 112 Erskine Road. the celebration is expected to begin in the morning at St. Catherine’s Church with a traditional Irish Mass, followed by a family-friendly Unity Breakfast at the Ringwood Community Center, where neighbors gather over food, fellowship, and plenty of Celtic cheer. After the parade, families usually head back to the Community Center for a post-parade celebration with food and drinks for purchase, children's activities, and performances by Irish step dancers and pipe bands.

Bayonne St Patrick's Day Parade (March 22, 2026)

@1PM the Bayonne St Patricks Day parade will begin on Broadway and 5th Street, proceeding north to 39th Street where we turn west to Avenue C and end at the entrance of Stephen R. Gregg/Bayonne County Park. The event blends formal Irish-American pageantry with a relaxed neighborhood feel, featuring Grand Marshal Peggy McGarvey leading divisions that include pipe and drum bands, Irish organizations, schools, scouts, civic groups, and public-safety honor guards. Expect a festive soundtrack of bagpipes, marching bands, and cheering crowds, along with kids waving flags, families in green, and local groups showcasing Bayonne's close-knit community characte.

Central New Jersey 2026 parades (family-friendly picks with a hometown vibe)

Central Jersey parades often hit a sweet spot: festive, easy to follow, and less chaotic than the biggest Shore days. Parking can still be competitive, but you’re more likely to find a side street and walk a few blocks without turning it into a two-hour project.

Belmar - Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 1, 2026)

@12:30pm the Belmar - Lake Como St Patricks Day parade will kick off from the western end of Lake Como at 22nd Ave and North Blvd and proceeds along Main St, past the reviewing stand on 9th Ave. The Belmar-Lake Como parade is renowned as one of the largest and most spirited St. Patrick's Day celebrations in New Jersey. It has a distinct, energetic Shore-town character—more laid-back and raucous than the big city parades, with a strong community feel. Expect a sea of green, festive costumes, and a party atmosphere that fills the town. A unique highlight is the massive contingent of marchers in green army fatigues. This tradition, started by locals decades ago, sees thousands of participants (and now many visitors) donning green military-style gear, creating a fun, unifying visual spectacle.

Ocean Countuy/Seaside Heights St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 7, 2026)

@ Noon the Ocean County/Seaside Heights St Patricks Day Parade begins at on the Boulevard and goes 1- 1/4 miles long starting at the Seaside Park border on J st and ending at Sampson Avenue. Unlike city parades, this one happens with the Atlantic Ocean and iconic Seaside Heights boardwalk as a backdrop, offering a unique seaside charm. While large, it retains a strong local, county-wide feel, with heavy participation from Ocean County's fire departments, schools, and businesses. Arrive early to secure your parking spot and take advantage of the lots around the Boulevard.

Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 8, 2026)

@1pm the Asbury Park St Patricks Day Parade begins at the intersection of Ocean Ave and 4th Ave and travels southwest towards downtown ending at the corner of Cookman Ave and Main St. The parade route takes marchers and spectators south on Ocean Ave alongside the historic Asbury Park boardwalk, past legendary landmarks like the Wonder Bar, The Stone Pony and the Empress Hotel, The Carousel House and Casino, continuing to the heart of the downtown district. Asbury has its own style. You get classic parade beats, but you also get artsy touches, lively crowds, and plenty of places to warm up afterward. Street closures can make the area feel tighter than expected, so arrive early if you want a prime spot near the start.

Rumson St Patrick's Day Parade (March 8, 2025)

@ 1pm the Rumson St Patricks Day Parade starts on Allen Street and River Road and ends at the intersection of Carton Street and Forrest Avenue (approximately one mile long).
This event is more than a parade. The Rumson St. Patrick's Parade is a cherished, family-oriented community event that marks the unofficial start of spring for the Jersey Shore. Unlike the massive, crowded parades in major cities, Rumson's version has a warm, hometown feel. It's a day where the community comes together—neighbors, families, local schools, and businesses—to celebrate Irish heritage and local pride. The atmosphere is festive, friendly, and filled with a sea of green.

Hamilton St Patrick's Day Parade (March 14, 2026)

@1pm the Hamilton St Patricks Day parade begins at Nottingham Fire House and proceeds towards the reviewing stand at Nottingham Way and Shady Lane. It will feature three Grand Marshalls: the owners of the popular local Irish Pub, Killarney's Publick House: Seamus Farrell, Don Caldwell, and Jack Manousos. The Hamilton Township St. Patrick's Day Parade is one of the largest and most celebrated in New Jersey, often drawing over 10,000 participants and tens of thousands of spectators. It has a genuine, community-focused feel—less commercial than big city parades, with strong roots in local Irish-American organizations, families, schools, and first responders. The atmosphere is joyful, patriotic (green-triotism!), and family-friendly.

Freehold Borough St Patick's Day Parade (March 15, 2026)

@ 12:30pm the Freehold St Patricks Day Parade will march along West Main St. from Mclean Street to the Elk's Lodge. Known for its genuine, community-focused charm (as opposed to the massive scale of nearby New York City's parade), it offers an intimate and festive experience right in the heart of historic Monmouth County. The celebration intensifies after the last marcher passes, as crowds spill into the borough's many pubs and restaurants. Freehold's downtown becomes one large, jovial block party.

Somerville St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 15th, 2026)

@ 1:30 PM the Somerville St Patricks Day parade begins at the corner of Main and Grove Streets in downtown Somerville and will proceed west to West End Avenue near Immaculate Conception Church. The parade is often part of a broader weekend of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Somerville and Somerset County. Many local establishments, such as Mannion's Irish Pub, Village Brewing Company, and Willie McBride's, host Irish bands, bagpipers, and Irish step dancers throughout the weekend.

South Amboy St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 15th, 2026)

@2pm the South Amboy St Patricks Day parade begins at South Pine Avenue then head North on S. Pine St. Turn Right onto Bordentown Avenue Turn Left onto South Stevens Turn Right on 2nd Street Turn Right on Broadway. The parade ends on Broadway at the reviewing stage. The South Amboy St. Patrick's Day Parade is a quintessential, homegrown Jersey celebration. It's less about spectacle and more about community spirit, Irish pride, and marking the beginning of spring together. It's a day where South Amboy, heartily and with open arms, lives up to its "Irish Riviera" nickname, offering a genuine, unforgettable, and warmly chaotic St. Patrick's Day experience. The honorees for 2026, include Grand Marshal John Dragotta, Deputy Grand Marshal Lee Steiner, and Honorary Grand Marshal Joseph Britton. It’s a good match for families who want the “kids waving at marchers” vibe, not a shoulder-to-shoulder street party.

Highlands St Patrick's Day Parade (March 21, 2026)

@ 2:00 PM the Highlands St Patricks Day parade will begin at Waterwitch Avenue and extend along Bay Avenue.
The colorful festivities will highlight Irish culture with nearly 100 marching units including bagpipers, marching bands, Irish dancers, and beautifully decorated floats. The 2026 Grand Marshal, Mayor Carolyn Broullon, will lead the parade beginning at Huddy Park with hundreds marching along a one-mile stretch of Bay Avenue.
All Businesses and/or Organizations in Highlands will be competing in three (3) categories: Best of Show, Prettiest, and Most Original. In addition, a trophy will be presented for the Best of Apparatus.

Southern New Jersey 2026 parades (shore crowds, boardwalk views, and early March fun)

South Jersey and the Shore are where the calendar starts early. Some of the biggest new jersey saint patrick day parades happen in the first half of March, with crowds that feel like summer showed up for a day.

If you’re heading to a Shore parade, plan like you would for a beach weekend. Arrive early, wear layers, and assume street closures will push you a few blocks away from where you wanted to park.

Gloucester City St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 1, 2026)

@ 1pm the Gloucester St Patricks Day parade begins at Martin's Lake (Baynes Ave and Johnson Blvd) and proceeds down Monmouth. The parade features string bands, bagpipes, Irish dancers, Irish music bands, community groups and more!
The celebration begins with a morning Mass at St. Mary’s in Gloucester City, which many parade-goers attend as part of the day. ​After the parade, visitors are encouraged to continue the festivities in Gloucester City’s pubs and restaurants, many of which offer Irish-themed food and drink specials and live entertainment into the evening.

Burlington County/Mount Holly St Patrick's Day Parade (March 7, 2026)

@ 1pm the only St. Patrick's Day Parade in Burlington County begins in Downtown Mount Holly on High Street. The Parade is a fun filled day with Pipe Bands, Irish Bands Step Dancers and many more examples of Irish Traditions. Join the crowd after the parade for a celebration at High Street Grill for the official After Party with non stop Irish music on two stages all day and night.

Atlantic City St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 7, 2026)

@ 1pm the Atlantic City St Patricks Day parade will kick off on the Boardwalk at St. James Pl, then will march to Albany Avenue along the Boardwalk.
On this day in Atlantic City everyone is Irish, Break out your green and join us on the boardwalk for a fun-filled family day in Atlantic City!
Its a Boardwalk parade that turns into a full Atlantic City day trip, even if you only came for the marching bands. You get the Boardwalk backdrop, plus easy add-ons, food, arcades, casinos, and classic people-watching. It’s also one of the easiest Shore parades to pair with an overnight stay if you don’t want to drive back the same day.

North Wildwood St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 14, 2026)

@ 12pm the North Wildwood St Patricks Day parade will kickoff immediaterly following the ceremony on the front steps of North Wildwood City Hall, 9th & Atlantic Avenue. The parade proceeds north on Atlantic Avenue to Olde NJ Avenue, North Wildwood, NJ
Participants in the parade include VFW Color Guard, Vietnam Veterans of America, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Irish Pipe Brigade, Emerald Society, Miss North Wildwood, Queen Oceania, Anglesea Irish Society, local school bands, and much more!

The parade is famously sandwiched by a bustling bar scene. Establishments like Keegan's are hubs of activity, with live Irish music, drink specials, and packed patties starting early and lasting long after the parade ends.

Sea Isle City St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 14, 2026)

@ 3:30 pm the Sea Isle City St Parricks parade begins at 83rd Street & East Landis Avenue, making its way down Landis Avenue and wrapping up at 63rd Street, finishing at Kix—a perfect place to keep the celebration going post-parade.

The Parade is a beloved, family-friendly, and joyously chaotic "welcome to spring" event for the entire Jersey Shore community. It transforms the quiet offseason beach town into a sea of green, with a strong emphasis on community spirit, local organizations, and lighthearted fun. It's more of a hometown celebration than a massive city parade, which is a big part of its charm.

The OD Café, Kix McNutley's, and Shenanigan's are epicenters of pre-parade festivities, often featuring live Irish music and breakfast specials. The celebration doesn't end when the last float passes. The action shifts back to the town's restaurants, pubs, and bars, which host live Irish music, DJs, and specials throughout the afternoon and evening. It becomes a Shore-wide social event.

Final thoughts

New Jersey does St. Patrick’s Day like a month-long tour, and 2026 is no different. Pick your parade by region, crowd size, and how far you want to travel, then lock in the basics the day before. Start times, routes, parking rules, and weather plans can shift, even for well-known nj st patrick's day parades.

Save this guide, share it with your group chat, and check official parade sites right before you head out. More NJ St Patrick's day events will get confirmed as March gets closer, so it’s worth checking back for updates. The best parade is the one you can actually enjoy once you arrive, green hat optional, good plan required.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
St. Patrick's Day Parades in New Jersey

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