St. Patrick’s Day Celebration 2025 in Toronto

Canada's most prominent St. Patrick's celebration takes place every March in the center of Toronto. St. Patrick's Day Parade is the main highlight of a vibrant and colorful celebration of Irish culture, heritage, and community spirit. Expect to see marching bands, unique floats, thousands of leprechauns, and a sea of green. Organized by the St. Patrick's Parade Society, the events have been held since 1987.

On the morning before the parade, Toronto comes alive with a vibrant, festive atmosphere as people dressed in green get ready to lively celebrations. Streets are adorned with green decorations, and crowds gather to enjoy the annual procession, which winds through the city with music and performers. Before and after the parade, locals and visitors alike flock to Irish pubs and bars to keep the festivities going with live music, dancing, and hearty cheer.

Popular Irish Pubs

Some of the city’s most popular Irish pubs include The Irish Embassy Pub & Grill, known for its bustling crowd and authentic charm, and Grace O’Malley’s, where live music and a party vibe are guaranteed. The Foggy Dew and McVeigh’s Irish Pub, Toronto’s oldest Irish pub, also draw large, enthusiastic crowds who gather to raise a pint of Guinness or enjoy traditional Irish fare. These iconic venues are the perfect spots to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish spirit.

The Grand Marshall Ball (March 8, 2025)

A week before the main Parade, Toronto's Society organizes a Grand Marshall Ball. This cocktail reception is aimed to recognize the parade Grand Marshall (the most prominent contributor to Toronto's Irish community). In 2024, it's the hockey legend–Brian Burke. Beyond the Marshall's much-awaited speech, you'll have an opportunity to enjoy traditional Irish dances, national folk music, plenty of food and drinks, and a company of Irish benefactors.

St. Patrick's Day Parade (March 16, 2025)

Traditionally, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Toronto starts on the corner of Bloor Street and St. George Street (by St. George subway station). Then, it heads along Bloor Street, turns south on Yonge Street and goes to Dundas Street, where it finishes. The procession starts at noon and continues for one and a half hours.

The parade review stand offers live entertainment, speeches from local dignitaries and the Grand Marshal. The start and staging area is near St. George and Bloor St, near the St. George subway station. The staging area opens at 8 am.

Toronto St. Patrick's Day Race (March 16, 2025)

The Annual Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Run on Sunday, March 16, 2025, kicks off spring with a festive 5K, 10K, and 1K kids’ dashes at the Evergreen Brick Works. Runners will enjoy a scenic route along the Bayview Extension and Rosedale Valley Road before returning for an Irish-themed after-party. Participants of all ages can celebrate with live music, a meal, and a pint while supporting Achilles Canada and other charities. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes, preferably green. All runners receive a technical shirt, a finisher medal, and a fun, lively St. Patrick’s Day experience.