Discover Baltimore's Irish Culture and Celebrations

As March unfolds, Baltimore transforms into a city painted green, bustling with the infectious spirit of St. Patrick's Day. Baltimore’s biggest wave of Irish settlers came in the mid-19th century and their presence can still be felt today — from the city's time-honored St. Paddy's parade and cozy Irish pubs to museums and festivals dedicated to Irish history and heritage. Don't worry... you don't need to be Irish to partake in Baltimore's Irish culture and celebrations. When you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast this March, everyone's Irish!

St. Patrick's Day Parade: It wouldn't be St. Patrick's Day in Baltimore without the city's iconic parade. A tradition for more than 65 years, the St. Patrick's Day Parade attracts thousands along the streets of downtown Baltimore and Inner Harbor, eager to celebrate Irish culture with music, dance and merriment. On Sunday, March 10, the parade kicks off at 2 p.m. near the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon and makes its way downtown before traversing the city’s main thoroughfare, Pratt Street. Expect bagpipes, festive floats, marching bands and, of course, plenty of green attire throughout the lively procession.

Baltimore's Irish Pubs: Revelers can continue their St. Patrick's Day festivities by exploring Baltimore's array of Irish pubs. You're sure to find warm hospitality, traditional Irish fare, and a wide selection of beverages to toast to the occasion at beloved Irish watering holes such as Mick O'Shea's Irish Pub in Mt. Vernon, James Joyce Irish Pub in Harbor East, Delia Foley's in Federal Hill, and Slainte Irish Pub and Restaurant in Fells Point — just to name a few.

Guinness Open Gate Brewery: Did you know that Baltimore is home to Guinness's only U.S. brewing location? While the Guinness Open Gate Brewery doesn't brew the Irish brand's iconic stout, it does produce a lighter, lager-style Baltimore Blonde. Take a tour of this experimental brewery and grab a bite to eat in the taproom or beer garden.

Shamrocks & Shenanigans: Why go to one bar when you can go to many? On March 15, the downtown entertainment district Power Plant Live’s Shamrocks & Shenanigans  will feature a concert and access to all of its nightclubs and bars, which include Angel’s Rock Bar, Mosaic, and Leinie Lodge & Beer Garden. Celebrate with green beer, festive inflatables, themed photo ops, live music and more.

Pints for Poe: To kick off St. Patrick's Day weekend, Poe Baltimore will host its annual Pints for Poe fundraiser on March 15 at the historic Carroll Mansion. This year's theme is Dead Irish Poets, and there will be food and craft beer, Irish music, poetry readings, raffles, and more. Money raised supports the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum.

Profs and Pints: Drink a pint while you learn about Irish history and heritage as Guilford Hall Brewery hosts Profs and Pints, where college faculty members share their knowledge on various topics. In March, these fun and fascinating lectures focus on Ireland's fight for freedom and Irish emigration.

Irish Railroad Workers Museum: To delve deeper into Baltimore's Irish roots, a visit to the Irish Railroad Workers Museum is both educational and enlightening. Located in two rowhomes that once housed Irish railroad workers, the museum pays tribute to the thousands of Irish immigrants who played a vital role in building America's railroads. Through exhibits, artifacts and guided tours, visitors can learn about the hardships and triumphs of these hardworking individuals and gain a deeper appreciation for their enduring legacy.

Irish Festivals: Baltimore's Irish festivities continue well beyond March. In April, you can spend a weekend soaking up Irish music and dance at the Irish Arts Festival. Join in the festivities as some of the world's finest traditional Irish musicians teach workshops, perform and lead sessions. Then in November, the Maryland Irish Festival will be held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in nearby Timonium. Rock out to Irish bands and enjoy the melodious sounds of harps and bagpipes at the three-day event.

Baltimore's Irish spirit shines brighter than ever. Whether you're reveling in the parade, raising a pint in a cozy pub or exploring the cultural landmarks, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the luck of the Irish in our vibrant and welcoming city when you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry. So, don your greenest attire and join in the festivities as Baltimore paints the town green in honor of St. Patrick's Day and the city's Irish heritage.