St. Patrick's Day Parade in Birmingham 2025, England

On of the largest and oldest St. Paddy's parade in the UK

Dates: March 17, 2025 (unconfirmed)

Birmingham's St. Patrick's Parade stands as one of the oldest and most significant celebrations of its kind in Great Britain. A beloved tradition for locals, the event transforms the city, particularly the vibrant Digbeth area, into a sea of green as the community comes together for the annual festivities. Adding to the city-wide celebration, the iconic Selfridges department store joins in the spirit by illuminating its façade with glowing green lights, creating a striking visual tribute to this cherished occasion.

St. Patrick's Day Mass

As part of the St. Patrick's Day celebrations, a special St. Patrick's Mass is usually held on Sunday, March 17, at 10 am at St. Anne's Catholic Church. Situated on Alcester Street in the heart of Digbeth, Birmingham, this historic church provides a serene and meaningful setting for the community to come together in prayer and reflection.

Parade Highlights

About 80,000 people gather on Bradford Street in Digbeth around noon to see the parade. The celebration starts with a confetti blast, which means it's time to start marching. At the get-together, you'll rub shoulders with Caribbean and Irish dances, witness Chinese Dragons, and see a lot of visitors dressed up in all-green. All the festivities will last until 2 pm.

St Patrick's Day Parade in Birmingham showcases the diversity of the city. The vibrant procession includes not just traditional Uilleann pipes and Irish national symbols. Various community groups make it one of the most colorful parades in the UK.

History & Meaning

Birmingham boasts a vibrant Irish community deeply rooted in the city's history since the Industrial Revolution. The St. Patrick's Day Parade, first held in 1952, is one of the oldest in Britain and serves as a proud testament to the enduring connection between the Irish diaspora in Birmingham and their homeland. Originally established by the Irish community to celebrate their heritage and strengthen their cultural identity, the parade has grown into a cherished tradition for the entire city.

In recent years, the parade has found its home in the historic Digbeth neighborhood, often referred to as Birmingham's Irish Quarter. This area has long been a hub for the Irish community, offering a fitting backdrop for the vibrant festivities.