?When March rolls around, one holiday tends to take over Nashville, St. Patrick's Day.
For a few days every year, Music City turns a little greener. You'll see packed patios, live music, Irish beers on tap, and more people wearing green than any other time of the year.
Whether you're planning a full day downtown or just want a reason to grab a Guinness with friends, here are some of the best ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Nashville in 2026.
Nashville St. Patrick's Day Parade
?March 14, 2026
If you want a true St. Patrick's Day atmosphere without the bar crawl crowds, the St. Patrick's Day Parade in East Nashville is one of the best places to start.
The parade runs through the Five Points area and brings together Irish music, dancing, bagpipes, and plenty of green outfits. It's one of the more traditional celebrations in the city and a good option if you want something festive during the day.
Von Patrick's Day: Germantown?
?March 14, 2026 | 11AM — 8PM
Von Elrod's annual Von Patrick's Day celebration has become one of the most popular St. Patrick's Day parties in Nashville.
Expect steins of green beer, live music, outdoor space, and a crowd that shows up ready to celebrate.
This one feels a little more organized than Broadway but still has plenty of energy.
McNamara's Irish Pub: Donelson??
March 14—17, 2026
If you're looking for a traditional Irish pub experience, McNamara's is one of the best spots in Nashville.
They typically host live Irish music throughout St. Patrick's weekend along with traditional food and a packed house of regulars and newcomers alike.
This is where you go if you want St. Patrick's Day to feel authentic instead of touristy.
McCreary's Irish Pub: Franklin?
?March 14—17, 2026
If you're celebrating south of Nashville, McCreary's Irish Pub in downtown Franklin is always one of the most festive spots around.
Expect live music, Irish food favorites, Guinness flowing all day, and a crowd that fills the sidewalks along Main Street.
It feels more like a neighborhood celebration than a big event, which is exactly why people love it.
St. Patrick's Day Runs?
?
March 7 & March 14, 2026
If you like starting the day off active, Nashville usually hosts several St. Patrick's themed races.
Options include:
- St. Paddy's 5K, 10K & Half Marathon — March 7
- Music City St. Patrick's Half Marathon & 5K — March 14
These tend to attract everyone from serious runners to people just there for the atmosphere.
A Nashville Tradition
St. Patrick's Day weekend has quietly become one of the biggest celebration weekends of the spring in Nashville.
Some people spend the whole day downtown. Others stick to their neighborhood pub. Most people end up doing a little of both.
Either way, expect a lot of green, a lot of music, and a lot of reasons to stay out longer than you planned.
Sources: Nash Today, Von Elrods, Trip Advisor, Visit Franklin, Run Sign Up, Tennessee Department of Economic