Everything Philadelphians Ask About the St Patrick's Day Parade

Sunday, March 14, 2027. The parade traditionally runs the Sunday closest to St Patrick's Day (March 17).

Step-off is 11:15 AM at 16th Street and JFK Boulevard. The full parade lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours.

It starts at 16th & JFK, marches east around City Hall, turns onto Market Street, and finishes at 5th & Market at Independence Mall — about 1.4 miles.

About three to four hours from step-off to the last unit passing the reviewing stand at 5th & Market.

Yes, the parade is broadcast live on CBS Philadelphia (CBS 3 / KYW-TV), typically from 12 PM to 3 PM on parade day.

Dilworth Park at City Hall is the best for photos; 5th & Market is the reviewing stand and best for seeing bands perform. See our full where-to-watch guide.

Yes. The parade is completely free to attend. Grandstand seating near the reviewing stand is first-come, first-serve.

Yes — the Philadelphia St Patrick's Day Parade runs rain or shine. It has only been canceled a handful of times in its 250+ year history, most recently for COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021.

Yes — Philadelphia hosts one of the oldest and largest St Patrick's Day parades in the United States, first held in 1771.

Very. Expect tens of thousands of parade spectators on Sunday morning, packed Irish pubs Friday night through Sunday night, and the Erin Express bar crawl bringing thousands more to Center City and Rittenhouse.

Yes. Broad Street around City Hall, Market Street from 15th to 5th, and JFK Boulevard from 20th to 15th all close from approximately 9 AM to 4 PM. Full details are on our road closures page.

SEPTA. Take the Broad Street Line to City Hall, or the Market–Frankford Line to 15th Street (near the start) or 5th Street (near the reviewing stand).