The river runs green during the month of March in Indianapolis. It seems that the entire Circle City catches the Irish bug. From festival parades to 5Ks, from celebrations of culture to celebrations of libations, you can find more than enough to do to celebrate March 17th in Indy. Here’s a roundup of what’s going on around town.

Greening of the Canal

The Greening of the Canal

Kick off the celebration a day early with the official Greening of the Canal on Thursday, March 16th at 5 PM. Enjoy free Irish entertainment and be on hand when the Mayor of Indianapolis, Governor of Indiana, Irish Citizen of the Year, and Executive Director of the Hoosier Lottery turn the waters of the canal a lovely shade of green in downtown Indianapolis. Enjoy a festive snack or beverage and kick the fun weekend off right.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Fanfare, floats, bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers, and more march down the streets of Indianapolis on Friday March 17th. At 11:30 AM, the 37th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Indianapolis is sponsored by the Hoosier Lottery. Find the parade route map here.

St. Patrick’s Day Block Party

Before and after the parade, don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day Block Party located on Vermont Street. From free coffee and doughnuts while supplies last to food trucks, special holiday merchandise, of course beer, and more, you’ll find a great place to hang out with old friends and meet new ones. 

Blarney Bash

At 11 am, head to Georgia Street for Jiffy Lube’s Blarney Bash. Enjoy plenty of live music from bands like The Late Show, The Doo, and My Yellow Rickshaw. Enjoy a green Coors Light and check out all of the great food, too!

St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt

Looking for family friendly St. Patrick’s Day fun? Don’t miss Indianapolis City Market’s St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt. At this fun event, you will find themed crafts, face painting, and so much more. Plus, if the weather is chilly or rainy, you’ll be warm and cozy while you take on the fun adventure of a scavenger hunt with written clues guiding you all through the City Market.

Shamrock Run

Stretch your Indianapolis St. Patrick’s Day Celebration out into the next day! Clock close to four miles before the revelry begins at the 27th Annual Shamrock Run and Walk on Saturday March 18th at 10 AM. It’s a festive fitness experience that draws thousands of participants each year.

St. Pat Rat

While the Rathskeller is usually known for all things German, all and into the night Saturday, March 18, you can cross cultures to celebrate St. Pat Rat. Irish Dancers, the Gordon Pipers, and more will certainly put you in the holiday spirit.

Indy loves a great celebration and St. Patrick’s Day offers you the perfect opportunity to find your perfect way to party.