Celebrate St Patrick's Day in Dublin, California
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Dublin. Photo courtesy of City of Dublin.
Looking for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Head to Dublin, where the city’s Irish roots come to life each March with one of the Bay Area’s biggest celebrations. From a festive parade and lively music to green pancakes and a community 5K, Dublin knows how to throw a proper St. Patrick’s Day party. Even better, it’s easy to get there on BART.
Below, we’re breaking down the history behind the city’s name, the events leading up to the big weekend, and what to expect at the main celebration.
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History of St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, California
The history of St. Patrick's Day runs deep in Dublin. Photo courtesy of the City of Dublin.
Before the parade and festival became an annual tradition, Dublin’s Irish identity was already deeply rooted in its early history.
Dublin owes its name to Irish immigrants who arrived in California in the mid-19th century. After the Gold Rush, they purchased land in the Amador Valley and established a community with churches, schools, and local businesses. Since the region reminded them of Ireland, they chose the name Dublin to honor their homeland. The post office formally adopted the name in the 1890s.
Irish heritage is central to the city’s identity. That connection is especially visible each March, when the community gathers to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a weekend-long festival rooted in both history and hometown pride.
Dublin's St. Patrick’s Day events leading to the main event
Don't miss the green pancakes at the annual firefighters breakfast. Photo courtesy of the City of Dublin.
The festivities don’t start with the parade — they build throughout the week with community-centered events that bring everyone together.
Dublin Historical Society's "Shamrock Gala"
On March 13 at 6 p.m., the Dublin Historical Society will host its annual “Shamrock Gala” at the Shannon Community Center. Members of the Dublin City Council, representatives from Bray, Ireland, and other community leaders will gather to honor the city’s Irish roots and officially kick off the festivities.
Annual Firefighters Pancake Breakfast
Head to Dublin Fire Station #16 on March 14 for the Annual Firefighters Pancake Breakfast. Hosted by Alameda County firefighters from Local 55, this beloved tradition serves up hot green pancakes and sausages for just $5 per person. It’s the perfect way to start the morning.
Dublin’s main event: St. Patrick's Day parade and festival
Celebrate 2026 St. Patrick's Day in Dublin! Photo courtesy of the City of Dublin.
Now for the main attraction — a full weekend of parades, performances, food and family fun.
The Parade
This year marks the 42nd St. Patrick’s Day Parade, organized by the Dublin Rotary Club, kicking off two days of festive fun beginning the morning of March 14. The parade begins at Dublin Boulevard and Amador Plaza Road, travels east on Dublin Boulevard, north on Village Parkway and west on Amador Valley Boulevard, ending near the Dublin Senior Center.
Expect marching bands, colorful floats, dancers and community groups lining the route. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to settle in and enjoy the show. This year, keep an eye out for the BARTmobile!
The Festival
Once the parade concludes, the St. Patrick’s Day Festival keeps the momentum going. Expect three stages featuring traditional Irish folk music, Celtic rock and bagpipes, with Irish dancers performing continuously on Saturday and Sunday. Check out the full St. Patrick’s Day Festival entertainment lineup — it’s sure to entertain all ages.
Also at the festival, the International Food Court offers everything from corned beef sliders and Irish bangers and mash to Guinness-marinated tri-tip on Irish soda bread, boxty and fish and chips. If you’re looking to enjoy lively Irish music along with a steaming cup of Irish tea, served with delicious shortbread and scones, head to the Irish Tea Cottage. Admission is $7 per person and includes a commemorative mug, tea and pastries.
There are also plenty of places to shop. Over 250 booths fill the Irish Marketplace with Irish treasures, including Celtic artwork, tartans, hand-knit wool sweaters, shawls and Celtic jewelry. Little ones will love the carnival rides.
Dublin's St. Patrick's Day celebration wraps with the annual Shamrock 5K Fun Run & Walk on Sunday. Open to runners, walkers, families with strollers and adaptive participants, the event welcomes all ages and abilities. It’s festive, inclusive and one of Dublin’s most cherished traditions.
From its historic roots to its vibrant parade and festival, Dublin truly lives up to its name each March. Hop on BART, wear your green and join the celebration — we’ll see you along the parade route.
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