Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Five Points South on March 12–17 + how to join the party

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Ready for a celebration full of tradition, fun and—most importantly—all things green? The annual Five Points South St. Patrick’s Day Celebration has you covered.

Since 1984, this beloved Birmingham tradition has brought the Irish spirit to the heart of Southside. Whether you’re here for the bagpipes, the parade or the perfect pint, it’s easy being green in Five Points South.

Read on to see how lads and lassies of all ages can join the fun.

What to expect at this year’s Five Points South St. Patrick’s Celebration

For decades, Five Points South has hosted one of the city’s most iconic St. Patrick’s Day gatherings, complete with food and drink specials, live music, a festive flag raising and a vibrant parade through the historic district.

The festivities run March 12–17, featuring a full lineup of events spread across nearly a week of Irish-inspired fun.

The Five Points Alliance, Birmingham Irish Cultural Society and the Downtown BHM Business Improvement District (BID) have been planning an even bigger bash for 2026 than in years past.

You can expect:

• More opportunities to support local biz—spend your gold wisely!
• An expanded Kids Zone for both the young and young at heart
• Exciting headlining talent to make your head bob and toes tap
• A revamped drink experience for visitors between 10AM and midnight

Thursday, March 12: Irish Flag Raising

Kick things off at the 12th Annual Irish Flag Raising at 5PM at the flagpole in front of Chick-fil-A in Five Points South. Hosted by the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society, this spirited ceremony features an Irish blessing to officially launch the celebration. It’s the perfect way to set the tone for the weekend ahead.

• When: Thursday, March 12 | 5PM
• Cost: Free
• Details

Friday, March 13: 46th Annual Irish Cultural Dinner

Head to the Stadium Club inside Protective Stadium for the 46th Annual Irish Dinner. Enjoy traditional Irish fare, libations and tastings while listening to live music from The Perpetual Declans.

Even better? Proceeds benefit Kid One Transport, which provides transportation to medical care for children and expectant mothers in need. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate while giving back.

• When: Friday, March 13 | 7PM
• Cost:
  • $75 per person
  • $800 for a table of eight
  • $1k sponsorship opportunities available
• Details

Saturday, March 14: 42nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Put on your green and head to the 42nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade begins on 10th Avenue South, passes Brother Bryan Park and travels up 20th Street South, led by the Ian Sturrock Memorial Pipe Band and other local groups.

Make a full day of it—from 10:30AM to 4:30PM enjoy Irish-themed food, drinks and live music on the Main Stage featuring Celtic Traditions, Hooley, Steel City Jug Slammers and John Hollier and the Reverie.

New additions to the celebration this year include a Vendor Village packed with local businesses and makers, plus an expanded Kids Zone with inflatables, face painting, balloon art and hands-on crafts for little leprechauns. Both areas will be open from 10:30AM to 4:30PM, giving visitors plenty of time to shop, play and explore.

Don’t forget that as an official Entertainment District, open containers will be welcome from 10AM to midnight—so you can keep the festivities rolling while the whole family has a blast.

• When: Saturday, March 14 | 10:30AM-4:30PM
  • Parade starts at 1:30PM
  • Lineup begins at 11AM @ Retail Strategies parking lot
• Cost: Free
• Details
  • Did you know Five Points South is a sub-district of the Downtown BHM BID? As part of the BID’s services, CAP’s Clean & Safe Ambassadors will patrol the area, adding an extra layer of safety and wayfinding to the celebration.

Tuesday, March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Specials

Can’t make it to the parade this year? Don’t fret—the luck of the Irish is still on your side! St. Patrick’s Day food, drink and retail specials will be available throughout Five Points South from March 12 to March 17.

• When: Thursday, March 12–Tuesday, March 17th (St. Patrick’s Day) 🍀
• Cost: Varies by retailer
• Details

Our tips for planning for a seamless parade day visit

A little planning goes a long way toward making your parade day stress-free and full of fun. Check out these tips:

• Located adjacent to Pickwick Place, the Five Points South Parking Deck will be set up for event parking ($20 upon entry for all-day parking). There is also ample street parking throughout the district, but carpooling is encouraged.
• Arrive early! Streets will begin to close ahead of the festivities, and prime parade viewing spots fill up quickly. Plan to get there with plenty of time to park, explore the neighborhood and grab a bite before the crowds settle in.

Mark your calendar, grab your green and we’ll see you there at the St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Five Points South.

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