Forget the pot of gold—this year, the treasure lies in Georgetown and Lexington, Kentucky, where St. Patrick’s Day festivities are brewing with Irish spirit, local charm, and a splash of bourbon. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a reason to toast with friends, these two towns have you covered. Let’s dive into the best ways to celebrate March 17, 2025, without sounding like a travel brochure.
Lexington: Where Green Meets Bluegrass
Parades and Shamrock Shenanigans
Kick off your St. Paddy’s Day with Lexington’s St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival on Saturday, March 15 (yes, they’re starting early). This lively event takes over downtown with floats, dancers, bagpipes, and enough green attire to make the grass jealous. Bring the kids—or your inner child—and soak in the festive vibes while munching on Irish-inspired bites from local vendors.
Bourbon Over Irish Whiskey? Of Course!
Lexington might not be Dublin, but it sure knows how to celebrate with style. Join a bourbon heritage tour hosted by Stone Fences Tours to explore Kentucky’s iconic distilleries and learn about the Irish influence behind those historic stone fences dotting the countryside. Who needs Guinness when you’ve got bourbon?
Bar Crawling Like a Pro
For those who prefer their St. Patrick’s Day with a side of nightlife, Lexington’s St. Paddy’s Bar Crawl is your ticket to good times. Hop between pubs offering themed drinks, live music, and plenty of opportunities to show off your questionable Irish jig skills.
Irish Fare Done Right
Lexington’s Irish bars and restaurants serve up classics like shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and Guinness stew. Pair your meal with a pint—or better yet, one of Kentucky’s signature bourbon cocktails—and toast to the luck of the Irish.
Georgetown: Small Town Charm Meets Big Fun
Crafting Your Way to Luck
If you’re in Georgetown on March 17, swing by the St. Patrick’s Day Drop-In Crafts event for some hands-on fun. Families can enjoy easy crafts like leprechaun coloring sheets and scavenger hunts to keep kids entertained while parents sip coffee—or something stronger.
Saintly Sips for Spirited Celebrators
For adults looking to raise a glass (or two), Georgetown offers its Saintly Sips Cocktail event featuring festive drinks like Tipsy Leprechaun tea made with Jameson Irish Whiskey or the Golden Goose cocktail mixed with Grey Goose Vodka. And if you’re feeling fancy, grab one of Applebee’s signature shamrock-themed beverages topped with candy rainbows.
Eco-Friendly Celebrations
Georgetown is also perfect for those who want to celebrate sustainably. Before heading out for festivities, try whipping up vegan-friendly Irish dishes like white bean cabbage stew or plant-based potato waffles at home. Bonus points if you bring your reusable coffee mug filled with shamrock shakes!
Family-Friendly Fun That Doesn’t Skimp on Festivity
Outdoor Adventures
Both Georgetown and Lexington offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Go hunting for four-leaf clovers in local parks or take a scenic drive through Lexington’s rolling hills to admire historic stone fences built by Irish immigrants.
DIY Leprechaun Traps
Keep the kiddos entertained by building leprechaun traps at home—because nothing says “family bonding” like catching imaginary creatures! Add chocolate coins as bait and let their imaginations run wild.
Cookie Decorating Madness
Turn your kitchen into an edible art studio by hosting a cookie-decorating contest. Shamrocks? Rainbows? Pots of gold? The possibilities are endless—and delicious.
Local Flair With an Irish Twist
Green Landmarks and Photo Ops
While Chicago dyes its river green, Georgetown and Lexington offer subtler nods to St. Patrick’s Day spirit. Snap photos in front of local landmarks decked out in green lights or decorations—you’ll have Instagram content for days.
Irish Cultural Centers
Dive deeper into Irish heritage by visiting cultural centers offering dance classes or art showcases during the holiday week. Who knows? You might discover your hidden talent for céilí dancing.
Why Settle for Ordinary?
St. Patrick’s Day in Georgetown and Lexington isn’t just another holiday—it’s an excuse to embrace Kentucky charm while channeling your inner leprechaun. From parades and bar crawls to crafts and cocktails, there’s something here for everyone (even if you don’t own a single green shirt). So grab your friends, family—or just yourself—and make this March 17 one for the books!
Sources: mygreenmattress.com, thepioneerwoman.com, visitlex.com, local.aarp.org
Header Image Source: Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash
