Historic Main Street St. Charles turns into a sea of green on March 17^th for the third annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This family-friendly Celtic celebration brings Irish heritage, flare, and music to St. Charles. Don your best green clothing and head to Main Street for one of the biggest parades of the year.

There may not be a pot o’ gold in St. Charles, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a reason to celebrate! Presented by the City of St. Charles and the St. Charles division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the parade is full of local businesses, schools, churches, and families. Each group has a large float, decorated golf cart, or a walking unit celebrating the Patron Saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Floats are decked out in green and are adorned with shamrocks and symbols of Irish folklore to paint the town green.

And you’re in luck! The parade route has been extended this year. It starts in the parking lot of the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum and now proceeds down the entire length of Main Street. Follow the sound of bagpipes and make sure to pick out some prime real estate ahead of the 4 PM kickoff of this popular event.

Arrive before the parade to go shopping on Main Street where many businesses will have green St. Patrick’s Day themed clothes and items for sale. Grab a bite to eat at a restaurant in the St. Charles Historic District. For an authentic Irish meal, dine at Llywelyn’s Pub at 100 North Main Street. Not only is this pub located on the parade route, but they also have a menu full of traditional Irish fare like a Reuben sandwich and shepherd’s pie.

May the luck of the Irish be with you this St. Patrick’s Day in Saint Charles. Come one, come all, and be a part of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Sláinte!