St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival 2025 in Sydney

Every March, Sydney comes alive to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in honor of Ireland's patron saint. The city hosts a four-day gala packed with live music, vibrant parades, and family-friendly activities. The Sydney St. Patrick's Day Festival, held at The Rocks, offers a free and inclusive event, bringing together locals and visitors to embrace Irish culture. Historically, Sydney's St. Patrick's Day Parade was the second-largest globally after New York's. Today, the festival remains the biggest celebration of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Locations

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival is held at The Rocks in one of the city’s most iconic areas, situated between the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, which glows green for the occasion. Events span multiple locations, including First Fleet Park, Tallawoladah Lawns, Bligh & Barney Reserve, and Cadman’s Cottage.

Events & Activities

The festival offers live music, Irish dancing, and a variety of entertainment for all ages. Visitors can explore Irish markets, enjoy food and drinks from numerous vendors, and participate in crafts and face painting. Children can head to the Tír nan-Óg area at Bligh & Barney Reserve for fun activities celebrating Irish culture. The parade itself, a highlight of the event, is complemented by Irish language lessons and performances. For festival-goers looking to bring home a keepsake, the merchandise stall offers a range of Irish-themed gifts, from t-shirts and hats to flags and badges. With a fully licensed event space and a mix of cultural and family-friendly activities, this festival is a vibrant tribute to Ireland’s patron saint.

Sydney St. Patrick's Day Parade

The Sydney St. Patrick's Day Parade is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and community spirit. The parade begins at Hunter and Pitt Streets at 11:00 am and winds through the city, culminating at First Fleet Park in The Rocks. This year’s theme, Le Chéile (Together), highlights unity and the shared joy of Sydney's multicultural community.

The procession features nearly 1,500 participants, including Irish dancing groups, pipe bands, community groups, and roving performers. Traditional Irish music, dance, and colorful floats create a lively atmosphere while the sounds of fiddles and bodhráns fill the air. Following the parade, the festivities continue at The Rocks with a festival offering music, dance, food, crafts, face-painting, and family-friendly fun, making it an event not to be missed.