The Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade was rated as one of America's best such events by Reader's Digest. It takes place every year in KC's Westport district where many Irish immigrants used to live. The parade starts at 11 a.m. at Linwood & Broadway St. and proceeds south along Broadway to 43rd Street.
The Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade attracts many celebrities. Among its grand marshals was “Modern Family” star Eric Stonestreet, “Gone Girl” author Gillian Flynn, and comedian David Koechner. The parade was started on 17 March 1973 by a group of local volunteers. Today, the festive procession attracts about 100,000 spectators every year, being one of the most significant events in the Midwest.
The parade showcases Irish culture and heritage. It is also a great occasion to indulge in Irish-inspired food and drinks. Many Kansas City pubs, bars, and restaurants offer special menus, prices, and a perfect atmosphere to contribute to the holiday and celebrate all things Ireland.
Other parades flood the streets in Blue Springs, Lawrence, and Leavenworth, to name a few. Afterward, you can stop by Browne’s Irish Marketplace, the oldest Irish-run business in North America to have a bite of traditional fare.
