Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade 2024 in Midwest

One of the largest annual parades in Missouri

Dates: March 17, 2024

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 were “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, being one of the most significant events in the Midwest, the festive procession attracts about 100,000 spectators.

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. The list of the most popular Irish joints includes Kelly’s Westport Inn, dating back to 1947, McFadden’s Sports Saloon in Power & Light District, O’Dowd’s at the Country Club Plaza, and Paddy O’Quigley’s in Leawood. You can also stop by Browne’s Irish Marketplace, the oldest Irish-run business in North America, boasting traditional fare.

Snake Saturday Parade (March 16, 2024)

Another popular St. Patrick's Day event is the Snake Saturday Parade in North Kansas City. The parade usually takes place on the weekend before St. Patrick's. This tradition started on the streets of KC in 1984 In addition to the family-friendly procession, it includes a cook-off, carnival rides, and games for children.

Other parades in the KC metropolitan area take place on the streets in Blue Springs, MO, Lawrence, KS, and Leavenworth, KS, to name a few.